Abstract: A composite fiber and resin sign post for displaying highway signs which provides great reduction in vehicle damage in the event a vehicle moving at high speed collides with the sign post. This potential is achieved by the controlling the mode and location of the structural failure of the post upon impact. The failure mode of the post is controlled by varying the configuration of the post in cross-section, in combination with varying the specific fibers and resins, and in further combination with varying the location and placement of the fibers. The composite post may be constructed by pultrusion, filament winding, or related processes. A preferred embodiment uses a ground anchor socket constructed either by processes and components similar to those used in manufacturing the post, or by stamping sheet steel and spot welding to form a socket. The anchor socket provides additional control over the post failure and makes replacement of damaged posts quicker and easier.

Abstract: A protective coating of finely divided abrasion resistant inerts carried in a corrosion resistant resin is diluted with a solvent and applied to a surface. The applied coating is cured to achieve either a single layer of inerts dispersed in the resin or two layers including a dense layer of inerts in resin covered by a thin layer of resin.