Modern glow-in-the-dark products use strontium aluminate pigments, which glow many times brighter and longer than the older zinc sulphide types.
How they work
The pigment stores energy from light and releases it slowly as visible light. Charging is fastest under daylight or UV-rich light. Afterglow brightness falls over time; standards such as DIN 67510-1 measure luminance at set times after charging.
Getting maximum glow
- Use enough pigment and a thick enough layer; glow scales with the amount of pigment
- Apply over a white base to reflect light back
- Use transparent, colourless binders
- Avoid grinding, which destroys the crystals; mix gently
Moisture
Strontium aluminate reacts slowly with water. Use coated, water-resistant grades for water-based systems and outdoor use.
