Ongoing Research & Development STAR, Inc. is a nationally recognized pavement maintenance research firm. The company was created to provide pavement maintenance professionals with the best products and the best technical assistance available. STAR, Inc. conducts continuing field and laboratory tests on many different pavement products. The results of these tests are analyzed and distributed regularly to STAR associates and customers throughout America and even in some foreign countries. Qualified STAR TEAM professionals stand ready to assist pavement maintenance contractors with critical information about material selections, equipment selection and maintenance, application techniques, project cost/benefit evaluations, mix design recommendations, governmental regulations and other factors that can effect efficiency and bottom line results.

STAR TEAM technical assistance experts have more than 200 years of combined experience in the seal coating and pavement maintenance industry.

The two most important factors in seal coating strength and longevity are resistance to water absorption and traffic abrasion. The following demonstrate why STAR-SEAL and STAR-SEAL SUPREME perform so well in “real world” situations.

Water Absorption Profile

The cured films of seal coatings have varying degrees of water absorption, depending upon the water sensitivity of the ingredients used in their formulations. STAR-SEAL® and STAR-SEAL SUPREME® are formulated with the least water sensitive ingredients and are therefore least affected by the problems associated with water absorption. Their superior performance is demonstrated by the graph above.

The samples are applied on pre-weighed aluminum panels in 30 mils. wet film thickness and allowed to cure for 7 days under controlled conditions (77 +/- 1 degree F, 50% Relative Humidity). After the cure, the samples are suspended in water and reweighed (after blotting surface water), after intervals of 3, 6, 24, 48 hours and one (1) week of immersion. The weight gained by the cured specimens is calculated and plotted as function of time.

Scrub Resistance Under Water

(ASTM D-2468 modified)

The cured films of seal coatings frequently encounter rain, snow and sleet. It is extremely important that these films retain their performance properties under such conditions and not be prematurely eroded by traffic. The scrub resistance test has consistently proven STAR-SEAL® and STAR-SEAL SUPREME® to have excellent durability under water

This test simulates the expected performance of a seal coating over a period of time. The sealer samples are cast in 30 mils wet film thickness on a white mylar panel and allowed to cure for 7 days under controlled conditions (77 +/- 1 degree F, 50% relative Humidity). After the cure, the samples are submerged in water containing silica sand and scrubbed with a brass bristled brush, down to the panel. Cycles are noted and reported as cycles to failure. The higher the scrub cycles, the better the performance of the specimen. The panels are also tested for softness and resistance to re-emulsification underwater.