Transportation Safety Division
3M Diamond Grade
Conspicuity Markings Series 983
Product Bulletin Series 983
April 2018
Replaces Product Bulletin 983 Dated April 2017
1 Description
3M Diamond Grade Conspicuity Markings Series 983 are highly retroreflective microprismatic markings designed
to enhance the visibilities of the sides and rears of vehicles. These reflective markings consist of prismatic lenses
that are formed in a transparent, synthetic resin, and sealed and backed with a pressure sensitive adhesive and
clear polymeric liner. Diamond Grade Conspicuity Markings are highly durable, providing up to ten years of field
performance. 3M's Series 983 markings have excellent angularity which provides enhanced visibility for drivers.
For warranty and product information on specific applications, such as trucks and trailers, rail cars, school buses, or
emergency vehicles, please see the specific product bulletins. This product bulletin applies to applications other
than trucks and trailers, rail cars, school buses, or emergency vehicles.
Combined fluorescence and retroreflection provides 24-hour visibility and detection.
Fluorescence enhances visibility.
For details of the features and benefits of Series 983 sheeting, please refer to the 3M Transportation Safety
Division website (2 3M Diamond Grade Conspicuity Markings Series 983 April 2018
1.1 Easy to Apply
Aggressive pressure sensitive adhesive
Easy to remove liner
Available in rolls, packaged pieces, or kiss-cut pieces on a roll. Please refer to the 3M Transportation Safety
Division Pricing Catalog for the standard product offering.
1.2 Durable
Pre-sealed edges
Non-metallic construction
2 Typical Physical Properties
Table 2 presents typical physical property data for Series 983 Conspicuity Markings. The information presented in
Table 2 should be considered typical only, and not be used for specification purposes.
Table 2. Typical Physical Properties
Property Series 983 Typical Values
Thickness (Caliper) 0.014 inch - 0.018 inch
45 White
5 Red
Whiteness Daytime Luminance Limit
27 Yellow
YT ASTM E1164
75 Fluorescent Yellow
90 Fluorescent Yellow-Green
Gloss ASTM D523 at 85 100
Shrinkage ASTM D4956 No substantial change
Flexibility - wrap around 0.125 inch
No cracking
mandrel at 32 F (0 C)
High pressure wash test - 45 angle,
Passes
1200 psi, 8 inch away
Adhesion - 90 Hanging Weight ASTM
0.2 inch (4 mm)
D4956
Minimum Application Temp. 50 F (10 C)
Degreased aluminum 5.3 lb/in (.95 kg/cm)
Prepainted panel 3.0 lb/in (0.55 kg/cm)
Instron Peel Adhesion 12 inch/minute, Stainless steel 6.0 lb/in (1.1 kg/cm)
90 pullback FRP 2.5 lb/in (0.52 kg/cm)
Tedlar 3.0 lb/in (0.54 kg/cm)
Aluminum Rail 3.5 lb/in (0.56 kg/cm)
Not affected by toluene, #2 diesel fuel, gasoline (leaded)
Chemical Resistance SAE J1967
kerosene, TSP detergent, xylene, dilute metal brighteners
Corrosion Resistance ASTM B117 Salt
No effect - 1000 Hours
Spray
Room Temperature Impact Resistance
No damage outside impact
100 in-lb, 5/8 inch tip
Cold Temperature Impact Resistance
No damage outside impact
60 in-lb at -20 F