How to produce the long-lasting marking paint?

Producing long-lasting marking paint requires careful formulation and application techniques to ensure durability under various environmental conditions (e.g., UV exposure, abrasion, moisture, and temperature fluctuations). Below is a step-by-step guide to creating a high-performance, durable marking paint:

1. Key Ingredients for Long-Lasting Paint

Component	Purpose	Recommended Choices
Binder/Resin	Adhesion and durability	Epoxy, polyurethane, acrylic, or alkyd resins
Pigments	Color and UV resistance	Titanium dioxide (white), chrome yellow, UV-stable organic pigments
Fillers	Bulk, abrasion resistance	Calcium carbonate, silica, quartz powder
Solvents	Adjust viscosity and drying time	Water (for water-based), xylene, or ketones (for solvent-based)
Additives	Enhance performance	UV stabilizers, anti-settling agents, plasticizers, anti-skid particles (glass beads)

2. Formulation Process

Step 1: Base Preparation

Water-Based Paint: Mix water with acrylic resin (e.g., 40-60% resin by weight).
Solvent-Based Paint: Combine solvents (e.g., xylene) with epoxy or polyurethane resin.

Step 2: Pigment Dispersion

Add pigments (15-25%) and fillers (10-20%) to the base.
Use a high-speed disperser or ball mill to grind and homogenize the mixture (prevents clumping).

Step 3: Additives Incorporation

Mix in UV stabilizers (1-3%) to prevent fading.
Add anti-settling agents (e.g., bentonite clay) to maintain consistency.
For road markings, include retroreflective glass beads (20-30% by volume) during application.

Step 4: Adjust Viscosity

Use thickeners (e.g., cellulose ethers) or solvents to achieve optimal viscosity for spraying or brushing.

3. Application Techniques for Durability

Surface Preparation: Clean and dry the substrate (e.g., concrete, asphalt) to remove oil, dust, or debris.
Priming: Apply a primer (e.g., epoxy primer) for better adhesion on porous surfaces.
Application:
- Spraying: Use airless sprayers for even coating.
- Extrusion: For thick line markings (e.g., roads).
Curing:
- Heat-cure solvent-based paints at 60-80°C for 1-2 hours.
- Water-based paints air-dry but may require 24-48 hours for full curing.

4. Testing for Longevity

Abrasion Resistance: Test with a Taber Abraser (ASTM D4060).
Weathering: Expose to UV lamps and humidity cycles (ASTM G154).
Chemical Resistance: Check resistance to fuels, oils, and detergents.
Adhesion: Perform cross-hatch adhesion test (ASTM D3359).

5. Example Formulations

Road Marking Paint (Solvent-Based)

Ingredient	Percentage
Epoxy resin	35%
Titanium dioxide	20%
Calcium carbonate	15%
Xylene (solvent)	25%
UV stabilizer	2%
Glass beads	3% (added during application)

Water-Based Floor Marking Paint

Ingredient	Percentage
Acrylic resin	50%
Chrome yellow pigment	18%
Silica filler	12%
Water	15%
Thickener	3%
Biocide	2%

6. Tips for Enhanced Durability

Layering: Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick layer.
Anti-Skid Additives: Mix in fine sand or aluminum oxide for slip resistance.
Topcoat: Seal with a clear polyurethane topcoat for extra protection.
Climate Adaptation:
- Cold climates: Use fast-drying solvents.
- Humid climates: Add fungicides to prevent mold.

7. Compliance and Safety

Follow EPA/VOC regulations (e.g., ≤ 150 g/L for water-based paints in the U.S.).
Use PPE (gloves, masks) when handling solvents or pigments.

Key Takeaway

Long-lasting marking paint relies on high-quality resins, UV-resistant pigments, and proper application. Always test the formulation under real-world conditions and prioritize additives that combat specific environmental stressors. For industrial use, epoxy or polyurethane-based paints are optimal, while water-based acrylics suit eco-friendly indoor applications.