There are works of literature that support that the idea started around 1000 BC in China (this was before the discovery of phosphorous).īut when Vincenzo Casciarolo discovered phosphorous in 1602, the evolution of glow-in-the-dark objects skyrocketed.

The “glow in the dark” concept is not new. Mixing luminescent phosphors with other chemicals like radium, tritium, and promethium creates a glow.

Instead, science calls it luminescence, which involves luminescent materials like phosphors. The glowing of the paint is not similar to how a light bulb glows. They are usually water-based, so they do not produce many harmful toxic fumes that could potentially cause serious health issues.īut, of course, inhaling the fumes is discouraged as it may trigger conditions like breathing difficulties and irritations. Phosphorescent glow in the dark paints on store shelves are generally safe and non-toxic. I will not go very technical, but I will mention that molecular reaction happens when the paint glows. These can include phosphorescent materials mixed with plastic and other chemical agents. Glow in the dark paint uses special materials and chemicals. Lastly, phosphorescent, which charges when exposed to UV light or artificial light – is the article’s focus. The second is flour-luminescent, a hybrid pigment that can glow in the dark for long hours. The first is fluorescent, which appears to glow in broad sunlight, but not in the dark. Three known pigments produce a glowing effect. It works like a rechargeable battery it stores energy and gradually releases it. Simply put, it absorbs light energy, and when it does, it releases it slowly. The phosphor material in the paint charges when exposed to light and emits a soft glow. Glow in the dark paint features phosphorescent material mixed with other chemicals. Things that glow catch attention, so using this type of paint can add more aesthetic value.įirst, however, you might be wondering what it is, what chemicals it features, how it works, how to use it, and what risks it involves. The maintenance schedule for the Fluorescent paint externally is likely to be a 6-12 month re-painting cycle.Luminous or glow-in-the-dark paint is indeed intriguing. The clear coat is an absolute necessity for exterior applications, both products will have a tendency to fade outside and the clear will slow down this fading process. Note – both of these paints work best as a two or three paint system along with a foundation base and a clear protective coat for high wear or exterior environments. Please note that this will not show any benefit in darkness without light shining on it.

Fluorescent paint will always appear brighter than adjacent non fluorescent colours, highlighting hazards, fire fighting equipment, emergency exits, etc. For example, it will shine bright when car headlights shine onto the paint on a skip. It works by converting UV light into visible light and is also reflective. It is a high visibility paint that comes in 5 colours. This paint is the ideal way to identify hazards. It is therefore ideal for use in enclosed areas to identify exits in case of emergency. When lights fail, for example, in a power cut, the surface will glow in the dark for a limited time which could help people find their out of the building. Once on the surface with the special undercoat, the paint ‘charges up’ when light is available. This is a special paint that comes in a light green colour.

Make sure you get the right one – read on. What is the difference between Luminous and Fluorescent Paints? Both these paints are used as visual aids but they are used in different ways for different purposes.

Luminous paint