Phosphorescent paint

Description

A luminous paint that absorbs ultraviolet radiation from the sun, then remains visible in the dark. Phosphorescent paints are used for signs, outdoor markings and in some indoor rooms to minimize shadows. The pigments must be present in nearly pure form as trace minerals and some fillers can absorb their light emissions. Yellow and orange phosphorescent pigments are usually combinations of zinc and cadmium sulfides. Green pigments contain zinc sulfide while blue and violet pigments contain calcium and strontium sulfides. Phosphorescent pigments are also used in postage stamps to aid in the automatic separation of domestic and airmail letters (Brady 1971).

Synonyms and Related Terms

pintura fosforescente (Esp.); peinture phosphorescente (Fr.); tinta fosforescente (Port.)

Resources and Citations

• G.S.Brady, Materials Handbook, 10th edition, McGraw-Hill, New York, 1971.