Optimized Road Marking Thickness (1.5–2.0mm): Glass Bead Size Matching Guide
For durable and high-visibility road markings, the thickness (1.5–2.0mm) must align with the road marking glass beads' size and refractive properties. Here’s a science-backed matching strategy:
1. Glass Bead Size Selection
1.5mm Thickness: Use smaller road marking glass beads (300–600μm) for uniform embedment. These beads ensure optimal light refraction without protruding, maintaining retroreflectivity in thin coatings.
2.0mm Thickness: Larger beads (850–1,180μm) enhance durability in high-traffic areas. Their deeper embedment resists wear while reflecting light effectively.
2. Refractive Index & Performance
Standard Beads (1.5 Index): Ideal for 1.5mm markings in urban roads. They balance cost and reflectivity.
High-Index Beads (1.57–1.93): For 2.0mm highway markings, these road marking glass beads boost wet-night visibility by 3–4× compared to standard beads.
3. Application Techniques
Drop-On Method: Apply beads onto wet paint for 1.5mm markings, ensuring 60% embedment for retroreflection.
Premix Method: Embed beads into 2.0mm thermoplastic for long-term reflectivity, even after surface wear.
4. Durability & Cost-Effectiveness
Properly matched road marking glass beads reduce repainting frequency by 30–50%, cutting lifecycle costs.
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