Self cleaning coatings for graffiti prevention removal and de-pollution (demo project).

PDFTech ReportFHWA NJ-2012-007Protective coatingGraffitiInorganic compoundsPaint removalDemonstration projectsResearch projectsNew JerseyNew Jersey. Dept. of TransportationBalaguru, PerumalsamyBrownstein, JeremyKlein, MatthewRutgers University. Center for Advanced Infrastructure & TransportationUnited States. Federal Highway AdministrationUS Transportation CollectionThe primary focus of this report is to demonstrate the suitability of an inorganic polymer compositecoating for transportation related structures. This report presents the results of three fieldapplications and evaluation of graffiti resistance including removal techniques, self cleaning and de-pollution properties.For field applications, pigment combinations were developed to match the colors of existingstructures or to blend with the surrounding areas. Techniques were developed and refined forapplication of the coating.To determine the effectiveness of graffiti resistance, several methods were assessed. Citric basedcleaner and baking soda pressure washer were found to be most effective. The results show thatthe coating effectively cleans organic pollutants and the results compare well with those reported foranatase titanium dioxide containing concrete and mortar. The exposure from the sun in the field wassuccessfully simulated in the lab using UV light. Based on the results obtained it can be concludedthat the composite coating is ready for large scale field applications