Abstract: An article of clothing 10 bearing a retroreflective applique 12 that has a binder layer 14 onto which a retroreflective layer 19 is disposed. The retroreflective layer 19 includes a layer of optical elements 16 and a metal reflective layer 18, and the binder layer 14 includes a thermoplastic copolymer that includes units which contain carboxyl groups. A retroreflective applique, which uses such a binder layer in conjunction with aluminum-coated or silver-coated optical elements, demonstrates very good home laundering durability.

Abstract: A high visibility fabric includes a web of fibrous material and a fluorescent layer. The web has first and second major surfaces, and the fluorescent layer includes fluorescent pigment in a crosslinked resin. The resin penetrates into the web to surround the fibers and is bonded thereto, but the fluorescent pigment is concentrated at the first major surface at a level greater than at the second major surface. Because the pigment concentrates at the one surface, considerably less pigment is used in producing a fluorescent colored fabric. The fabric can be used to form a safety vest, and retroreflective sheeting can be placed on the vest to further enhance visibility.

Abstract: A high visibility fabric having a non-woven web material with a fluorescent layer. The fluorescent pigment concentration in the fabric is greater proximate a designated fabric outer surface than at other outer surfaces of the fabric. The fabric is used for manufacturing safety vests, signage, and other articles requiring high visibility.

Abstract: A retroreflective marking material which can be secured to a substrate, e.g., a firefighter's helmet, and then readily removed when desired, even after exposure to heat and flame. The material comprises a retroreflective layer made up of a layer of retroreflective elements in a binder layer, a fire resistant fabric, and a defined fire resistant adhesive on the rear of the fire resistant fabric. The adhesive adheres strongly to polycarbonate and can be stripped from polycarbonate after being held in a forced air oven at 260.degree. C. for 5 minutes. The marking material can contain fluorescent coloring agent(s) to afford good daylight visibility.