Quick Reference - Reflective Tape ASTM Types & Backing Classes

Quick Guide to ASTM D-4956 Sign Sheeting Types and Adhesive Backing Classes –

There are nine types and five classes of retroreflective sheeting.

Types are determined by conformance to the retro-reflectance, color, and durability requirements (as listed in the standard) and may be of any construction providing that those requirements are met. Common references for each type of retro-reflective sheeting are:

Retro Reflective Sheeting Types (ASTM D-4956) –

(Note – For comparison, candela ratings are based on a .2 observation angle/-4 entrance angle)

Type I – Engineering Grade (Glass Bead Technology) (75 Candelas for White) 
Type II – Super engineer grade (Glass Bead Technology) (140 Candelas for White) 
Type III – High-intensity Glass Bead (Glass Bead Technology) (250 Candelas for White) 
Type IV – High-intensity Micro-Prismatic (360 Candelas for White) 
Type V – Super High Intensity Sheeting for Delineators (typically a thin metalized film – rugged and incredibly bright) (700 Candelas for White – up to 2000 Candelas for .1/-4 observation) 
Type VI – Elastomeric retroreflective sheeting without adhesive – Roll up Sign Material (160 Candelas for Pink)
Type VII – Discontinued and Replaced by Type 8 Sheeting. 
Type VIII – Retroreflective sheeting typically manufactured as an unmetalized cube corner Micro-Prismatic retroreflective element material. (700 Candelas for White)
Type IX – Retroreflective sheeting typically manufactured as an unmetalized cube corner Micro-Prismatic retroreflective element material. (380 Candelas for White)
Type X – Discontinued and Replaced by Type 8 Sheeting.
Type XI—Retroreflective sheeting typically manufactured as an unmetalized cube corner Micro-Prismatic retroreflective element material. (580 Candelas for White)

Adhesive backing classes –

Class 1 – Pressure-sensitive adhesive (no heat or solvent) – most common 
Class 2 – Adhesive activated by heat and pressure
Class 3 – Repositionable low-tack pressure-sensitive adhesive
Class 4 – Low-temperature (-7°C) pressure-sensitive adhesive
Class 5 – Non-adhesive backing (i.e. roll up signs)

Steve Cole

Steven Cole (Economics, MBA – University of West Florida , Business & Innovation – Stanford University) 25 years of experience in the reflective safety business. Specializing in vehicle accident and rear end collision reduction through increased visibility.