Assessing the Elastic Moduli of Pavement Marking Tapes using the Tape Drape Test

Abstract

Temporary pavement marking (TPM) tape adhesion with roadway surfaces is critical for tape performance. The two main TPM performance issues both stem from the adhesive strength. Weak adhesion results in premature detachment and excessive adhesion requires extensive removal processes that often leave ghost markings, both of which can cause dangerous confusion in road construction zones. Tape adhesion is directly related to the elastic modulus $(E)$ of TPM tapes. Thus, accurate characterization of $E$ before tape installation is essential to fully understand and predict the adhesion performance and ultimately the durability of TPMs. To determine the most appropriate $E$ characterization technique for three different commercial TPM tape brands, two commonly used techniques—tensile and three-point bend testing—were compared with a less common technique, the Peirce cantilever testing or “Tape Drape Test” (ASTM D1388-18). The Tape Drape Test was the only method that accurately characterized $E$ of tapes with raised surface features. Measured $E$ values from tensile and three-point bend testing showed significant variation caused by the structural features of the tapes. The Tape Drape Test, which can be implemented quickly in the field before tape installation with little equipment, effectively characterized $E$ for all the tapes to inform tape adhesion performances and installation procedures.