In an illuminating discussion with Parth Kirit Vadia, Partner at Prabhat Paint Industries, we uncover the latest trends, challenges, and transformative technologies that are painting a fresh chapter in the realm of road marking, shaping the future of transportation infrastructure.

What improvements have been observed in the maintenance and visibility of new and major national highways?
Regarding new and major national highways, there has been a notable improvement in the application of thermoplastic retro-reflective coatings. These advancements have significantly enhanced the visibility of road markings, ensuring a strong retro-reflective glow that greatly aids in nighttime driving and adverse weather conditions. Moreover, the overall maintenance of these roads has been commendable, contributing to safer and more efficient travel. The enhanced retro-reflective properties of the coatings provide clear guidance and improve the overall driving experience, demonstrating a commitment to high standards in highway infrastructure and safety.

What are the environmental implications of using thermoplastic road marking paints compared to cold-applied water-based road marking paints?
The demand for durable and cost-effective road marking solutions has brought thermoplastic road marking paints to the forefront. However, despite their longevity and economic advantages, these paints raise environmental concerns due to the process involved in their application. The conversion of thermoplastic powder into a liquid form during melting emits significant amounts of smoke, which has adverse effects on air quality.

In contrast, many airports have shifted towards cold-applied water-based road marking paints, recognising their eco-friendliness in comparison to Thermoplastic Paints. Although these alternatives exhibit lower VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) emissions, the specific VOC content can vary among manufacturers. Compliance with low VOC norms is contingent upon the policies embraced by individual airport authorities.

It’s noteworthy that while cold-applied water-based road marking paints offer environmental advantages, the volume required for application is typically less than that of thermoplastic paints. This underscores the potential for reducing environmental impact through the adoption of alternative marking solutions. Balancing the need for durable road markings with environmental stewardship remains a crucial consideration in modern infrastructure development.

In the era of smart cities and connected infrastructure, how are road marking coatings being integrated with emerging technologies to enhance visibility, traffic management, and overall urban mobility?
The integration and upkeep of road marking paints are imperative in the era of smart cities, especially integrating retro-reflective paints on vertical substrates like kerbs, road diversions, dark road obstructions etc for better visibility. Long lasting coloured markings / coloured concrete on roads can enhance the beauty of the city and also enhance visibility. However, the mere establishment of smart infrastructure with well-marked roads is insufficient without concurrent efforts to educate city residents about lane discipline and road signage. The effectiveness of road markings hinges not only on their presence but also on the awareness and adherence of citizens to traffic regulations. Thus, alongside technological advancements in urban development, fostering a culture of road safety awareness and compliance is essential for the holistic success of smart city initiatives.

What are the recent developments in road marking paints, and what challenges hinder their widespread implementation?
The latest advancements in road marking paints focus on their ability to reflect heat, thereby aiding in the cooling of the ground surface. Also, there is a growing interest in the development of kerb marking paints that have the potential to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. However, the adoption of these innovative technologies remains challenging due to their high costs, making widespread implementation on a national scale problematic. Despite their promising environmental benefits, the current expense associated with these solutions presents a barrier to their widespread adoption and integration into infrastructure projects at the country level. Thus, while there is significant potential for these technologies to contribute to environmental sustainability, further research and investment are needed to overcome cost-related hurdles and facilitate their broader application in road marking and urban development initiatives.

What trends will influence the future of road marking coatings, including materials, application methods, and regulations? How might these trends affect the construction and infrastructure sectors?
There exists a significant need for the advancement of eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives to thermoplastic marking paints. Currently, there is a tendency for individuals to overlook the importance of quality marking paints, often opting for inferior, non-standard products. To address this issue, stringent measures must be implemented to deter individuals from exploiting the system. The Construction and Infrastructure industry stands to benefit greatly from strengthened and modernised regulations, coupled with standardised procurement practices under vigilant supervision. By ensuring that regulations are robust and up-to-date and that purchasing practices adhere to strict oversight, the industry can experience notable enhancements in efficiency and quality. It is imperative to instil a culture of accountability and adherence to standards throughout the supply chain to promote the widespread adoption of high-quality, eco-conscious marking paints, thereby fostering sustainable development within the sector.

For more information, visit: https://www.prabhatpaints.com/