Trials of High-friction Surfaces for Highways

High-friction surface systems are used to support the DETR's skidding standard on high stress sites. Until recently an epoxy resin was used as a binder to obtain the necessary skid resistance, but with increased demand for high-friction surface systems, alternative systems have come onto the market using different resins as binders. This report describes a series of road trials, set up to compare the performance of a range of resin systems (epoxy-resin, polyurethane-resin, acrylic-resin and rosin-ester). Systems are ranked in terms of maintained skid resistance, texture depth and longevity. Consideration of the different laying techniques employed for different resins indicates that the choice of resin type may be influenced by constraints imposed while laying as well as the performance requirements in service. The results from a series of laboratory tests which have been devised to simulate accelerated wear under trafficking support the road trial conclusions. The results have been used to develop performance-related criteria for a Highway Authorities Product Approval Scheme (HAPAS) certification procedure which can be used to assess existing systems and systems that may be developed in future.