GENERAL

Anti-graffiti coatings are used to prevent the adhesion of unwanted coatings or to facilitate the removal of applied graffiti. There are two types of anti-graffiti coatings, sacrificial and non-sacrificial (permanent). Only non-sacrificial anti-graffiti coatings are covered in this IM. Anti-graffiti coatings shall meet the requirements of applicable Iowa Department of Transportation specifications. Surface preparation and application of an anti-graffiti coating shall follow manufacturer’s recommendations.

When used in Iowa, brand name and producer name of approved coatings must be identifiable by marking on the container.

Approved brands of non-sacrificial anti-graffiti coatings are listed in Appendix A.

ACCEPTANCE

The acceptance of an anti-graffiti coating for use in Iowa Department of Transportation projects will be on the basis of manufacturer and brand name approval.

To obtain the approval of an anti-graffiti coating, manufacturer shall submit the following items to the Office of Materials in Ames, Iowa:

· Product identification including brand name and product number.

· Complete manufacturer’s recommendation for usage.

· A current Materials Safety Data Sheet (MSDS).

· Acceptable experimental results for the tests listed in Table 1.

· A one-liter (one-quart) representative sample, if requested.

The Office of Materials will evaluate an anti-graffiti coating based on the submitted test results for approval and if necessary, will test the material by the methods described in Table 1.

The approval of an anti-graffiti coating may be withdrawn because of deficient test results, product changes made after original approval, or unsatisfactory field performance.

TABLE 1 TESTS AND REQUIREMENTS FOR APPROVAL

Graffiti Resistance	ASTM D 6578 - Graffiti removals (Sections 8, 9 and 10)	Cleanability scale: 6 min.
Lab-Accelerated Weathering Exposure	ASTM D 4587 - Cycle 2, UV light, 2000 cycles.	No visible color change and loss of gloss, and no film erosion and cracking
Standard Outdoor Exposure	ASTM G 7 -Outdoor exposure of 6 months minimum.	No visible color change and loss of gloss, and no film erosion and cracking