What is high-friction surfacing?

In the realm of road safety and infrastructure, one often overlooked yet critical element is the surface beneath our wheels. High-Friction Surfacing (HFS) provides a solution that enhances grip, reduces accidents, and transforms roadways into safer environments. This blog post explores High Friction Surfacing, shedding light on its benefits, applications and the pivotal role it plays in safeguarding lives on the road.

High-Friction Surfacing (HFS) has emerged as a game-changer in road safety, offering a specialised solution to enhance skid resistance and reduce the risk of accidents. In this blog post, we delve into the intricacies of HFS, exploring its materials, benefits, applications, and the exciting future trends and innovations shaping the road safety landscape.

Unravelling High-Friction Surfacing

High-Friction Surfacing (HFS) refers to the application of materials on road surfaces to improve skid resistance, particularly in areas prone to accidents, such as intersections, sharp curves, and pedestrian crossings. This specialised surface treatment significantly increases the friction between tires and the road, thereby reducing the risk of skidding.

What materials are used in High-Friction Surfacing?

There are two main types of material used in HFS, Aggregate and Binder

1. Aggregate:
   • Crushed and specially graded aggregates, such as calcined bauxite or high PSV aggregates, which form the backbone of HFS.
2. Binder:
   • Epoxy or polyurethane resin acts as the binder, ensuring the durability of the surface by securely attaching the aggregate to the road.

What are the benefits of High-Friction Surfacing:

1. Enhanced Safety:

   • Proven to be a crucial safety measure, especially in accident-prone areas like schools and busy junctions.
   • Improved skid resistance helps vehicles maintain better control, reducing the likelihood of skidding and collisions.

2. Weather Resistance:

   • HFS maintains skid resistance even in wet conditions, ensuring consistent safety regardless of weather.

3. Durability and Longevity:

   • High-quality aggregates and durable binders create a robust surface that withstands heavy traffic and the test of time, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.

4. Cost-Effectiveness:

   • While the initial investment may be higher, the long-term benefits in safety, reduced accidents, and lower maintenance costs make HFS a cost-effective solution.

Applications of High Friction Surfacing:

1. Road Junctions and Intersections:

   • Commonly applied to reduce skidding risks at intersections and roundabouts.

2. Pedestrian Crossings:

   • Enhances safety in crosswalks with better traction for both pedestrians and vehicles.

3. Hazardous Curves:

   • Strategically applied on sharp curves and bends to mitigate skidding risks.

4. Bus Stops and Railway Crossings:

   • Ensures vehicles can stop or slow down safely in these critical areas.

Future Trends and Innovations:

1. Smart Road Technology:
   • Ongoing research explores innovative materials and technologies.
   • Sensors that monitor road conditions and adjust friction properties in real-time hold the potential to revolutionize road safety.

Conclusion

High-Friction Surfacing stands as a testament to the proactive measures taken in the realm of road safety. Its application goes beyond aesthetics, delving into the core of accident prevention and ensuring that our roadways become spaces where safety takes precedence. As we navigate the twists and turns of modern transportation, High-Friction Surfacing paves the way for a future where every journey is not only efficient but, more importantly, safe for all.

Contact Us

Call us on 0800 0146 420 and speak to one of our team about our HFS solutions.