Fluorescing Coatings for Improved Inspection During Bridge Maintenance Painting KYSPR 09-377

OBJECTIVES: The objectives for this project are to: 1. Determine the state ofOAP (Optica lly Active Pigments) technology and identify potential sources of OAP bridge coatings. 2. Develop a test procedure to effectively test OAP coatings under a range of lighting levels that replicate inspection circumstances along with comparative tests on conventional coatings (i.e. by in spections using light sources in the vi sual light spectrum). These procedures should include evaluations of common bridge coatings defects. 3. Detennine the effectiveness of the OAP coatings by comparison tests in the visible light spectrum for typical KTYC coatings inspectors. 4. IfOAP coatings perform well, seek to extend the use ofOAP/UV technology to coating applicators/contractors for use during spray-out with the intent of improving the quality of applied coatings. 5. Develop special notes for experimental maintenance painting proj ects using OAP coatings. 6. Conduct laboratory tests of the OAP coatings to determine whether they meet current KYTC Category 2 Maintenance Coatings requirements. 7. Document a ll research findings.