MICROPPLY LIMITED - Developing a Prototype (DOP) of a flameless device for installing thermoplastics in hazardous and confined areas

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Surface Markings are a versatile and essential addition to asphalt or concrete surfaces. Theyplay one of the most important safety functions on pavements and roads, as well as givingfacilities owners the ability to construct education, leisure, and advertising in prime locationson the ground. This has led to a wealth of global opportunities in playgrounds, theme parks,car parks, stadia and other forecourts; in addition to road markings. The global markingsindustry is estimated at $50bn USD, and employees over 250,000 people (Gartner, 2014).There are 178 UK companies operating in this market.There are currently four main typologies of surface marking materials (paint, thermoplastic,resin, and tape), each differ in terms of cost, performance, durability, speed of application, andsuitability. There is a growing trend towards using thermoplastics because of their zerosolvent/VOC (Volatile Organic Content) level, safety, high retro reflectivity, variablethickness, bright colours, and ability to easily re-apply over old markings.However, there are commercial and technical issues with current installation processes thathave prevented the use of thermoplastic markings in lucrative hazardous area industries e.g.Oil & Gas, PetroChem, Underground networks - not least the requirement to install with anaked flame (which is banned in hazardous areas). Further, current methods are expensive,labour intensive, slow and give inconsistent results.This project addresses these problems. Following three successfully funded TSB grants(POM, HVM Business Model, and POC - File Refs 700255, 221214 and 710487respectively), we address the problems by developing a DOP Stage flameless device that cansimultaneously apply heat, measure temperature, and apply the correct volume of antislipaggregate over the thermoplastic surface evenly, deploying it at the correct time to giveoptimised visual/retro reflective qualities, and without the use of a naked flame.