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Painted traffic markings are used on paved roadways to provide guidance and information to drivers and pedestrians. Uniformity of the markings is an important factor in minimizing confusion and uncertainity about their meaning. Countries and areas categorize pavement markings in different ways. In the U.S., the type, placement, and graphic standards of Traffic Signs and pavement markings are legally regulated — the Federal Highway Administration's '' Manual On Uniform Traffic Control Devices '' is the standard, although each state produces their own manual based upon the Federal manual. Generally white lane markings indicate a separation between lanes traveling in the same direction while yellow markings indicate opposing traffic. In some areas, such as Colorado , black material is applied on the surface before a shorter white line is painted. This improves the contrast of the marking against "white" concrete. Technological breakthroughs include adding reflectivity, increasing longevity and lowering installation costs. For more usage information please read about Lane markings. PAINT Paint, sometimes with additives like reflective glass beads, is generally used to mark travel lanes. It is also used to mark spaces in Parking Lots or special purpose spaces for handicap parking (blue), loading zones, or time restricted parking areas. Colors for these applications vary by locality. Paint is a low cost marking and has been in use since approxamately the early 1950's. Paint is usually applied right after the road has been paved.The road is marked commonly by a truck called a "Striper." These trucks contain hundreds of gallons of paint stored in huge drums which sit on the bed. The markings are controlled manually or automatically by the controller who sits on the bed. Paint is run through a series of hoses under air pressure and applied to the roadway surface. After application, the paint dries fairly quickly. Painted symbols, such as turn-lane arrows or HOV lane markers, are applied manually using templates. PLASTIC Plastics were introduced in the late 1960's and early 1970's. Being more durable generally than paint, they are commonly used to mark Crosswalk s, Stop Line s and traffic guidance such as Turn Lane s, HOV lanes, Train Crossing s, Pedestrian Crossing s, taxi lanes, and bus lanes. The plastic is applied by heating and then rolling or spraying onto the pavement. Plastic is durable, but costly. EPOXY Epoxy has been in use since the late 1970's and has gained popularity over the 1990's as the technology has become more affordable and reliable. This material competes directly with plastic with respect to usage and cost. SEE ALSO
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