Abstract: The invention generally relates to methods of embedding secondary particles onto the surface of a primary particle by means of a polymeric material and in particular to methods of making retroreflective elements.

Abstract: A coater for separating primary particles that are coated with a sticky or tacky resin, and covering the surface of the primary particles with a secondary particle of smaller size is disclosed. The coater includes a disc having a periphery, a motor engaging the disc so as to be able to spin the disc, and a restrictor mounted adjacent to the disc so as to provide a gap for the egress of coated particles near the periphery of the disc. Other embodiments of the invention will also have a first dispenser for particles disposed above the disc. Also conveniently, the coater will also have a second dispenser for particles disposed above the disc. In one application for which the coater can be employed, the first dispenser will be adapted to dispense a mixture of sand particles and polymeric resin, and the second dispenser will be adapted to dispense retroreflective glass beads.