Glow in the dark products are used today in many different applications. People use them in night vision equipment, marine and aviation lights, laser pointers, warning lights, emergency lighting and even toys. There are many reasons why people choose to use glow-in-the-dark products in their projects, and once you understand how they work, you can apply this knowledge to your own projects. Many times when using glow-in-the-dark items you don’t want to have to deal with dealing with the extra maintenance that is required when working with fluorescent bulbs, but instead want something that is brighter and more visible. This is where glow sticks come into play.
Phosphorescent materials commonly used in glow in the dark products are mercury vapors, pure hydrogen peroxide, and ferric oxides. Phosphorescent materials are typically manufactured in rolls similar to paper and then coated with a fluorescent dye. When exposed to bright light of a lower wavelength, a fluorescent material will glow, emitting the light and then reflecting it, usually for the second half of the visible spectrum. Unlike fluorescent lights, a phosphorous material does not instantly emit the light it emits.
One of the most common uses of glow sticks is for entertainment. You will find that they can be purchased in a variety of different sizes and shapes to suit almost any situation. The bigger the glow stick the brighter it will be and the more it will illuminate. Some are designed so that the phosphor mixes in with the colors of the light, creating a blended effect that is even more dazzling. You can even purchase glow sticks that glow in the dark underwater!
Another type of glow in the dark product that is commonly used is lighted shoes. These are also known as glow-in-the-dark running shoes. Instead of the light from the shoe shining on the ground, the glow in the dark from the shoes is emitted, making them very visible in dark areas. Glow sticks shoes don’t have to be running shoes; you can also use them for beach and water activities.
There are many more products available today than were available even a few years ago. It has become much easier to find just about any type or style of glow in the dark product that you need. The selection includes things that can be used in the home or at parties, along with glow sticks products that are so large and bulky that they cannot be easily transported in the car or placed in the back of a pickup truck.
Glow in the dark products are no longer something you need to have only in dark rooms. They can be used in any location, and they provide countless hours of fun for those who want to add some excitement to their night. No longer are glow sticks reserved for a party or special event. With the wide variety of products now available, there is something available for everyone’s every need.