Phosphorescent pigments are pigments that absorb UV energy and then re-transmit it as an afterglow. Their effect is permanent as long as the paint film is intact.
These glow in the dark pigments are Zinc Sulfide compounds that responds to excitation by daylight, incandescent, fluorescent or ultraviolet lights. This pigment emits a bright phosphorescence shade and exhibits high initial brightness and afterglow. The afterglow effect is dependent on pigment concentration, surface area and amount of radiant energy absorbed.
Precautions when handling phosohorescent pigments :
- When working with strong acids since this can cause dissolution of phosphorescent pigments.
- In the presence of high relative humidity and sunlight, phosphorescent pigments can exhibit darkening.
- It is not recommended to mill this product since this will degrade thephosphorescence due to breakdown of the crystal structure of the phosphorescent pigment. Mild stirring should be used to incorporate these pigments into a binder.
- The addition of colorless extenders or colored pigments will reduce the intensity of the phosphorescence.
- Testing is recommended in the intended application to determine suitability.
