A paint which glows in the dark both indoors and outdoors definitely attracts the attention. This is why we have prepared descriptions of the most important luminous wall paints below. We hope this will help you understand the differences between fluorescent, phosphorescent and electroluminescent products.

Luminescent wall paint

A glow-in-the-dark wall paint is a common name used in the case of luminescent paints. These products emit glow and colour after the application of a specilic stimulus. There are several types of luminous paints, including fluorescent, phosphorescent, and electroluminescent. Each type has its own unique properties and principle of action.

Fluorescent paints

Fluorescent paints are one of the most popular types of so-called glow-in-the-dark wall paints. They are activated by ultraviolet light which requires installation of special UV lamps. When ultraviolet light falls on a surface coated with fluorescent paint, the dye molecules absorb that light and immediately emit it in the form of a visible glow. This makes fluorescent paints seem to glow in the dark and creates the effect of intense, bright colours.

Within our offer, you will find invisible fluo paints as well as products which stand out during the day with their vivid, neon colour. Invisible fluo paints are almost completely transparent or milky white. Their beauty can be seen only when UV light is on. This is when they show a palette of colours which was not visible before. Fluorescent and neon paints – FLUOpaint, despite being often used in dark surroundings, are picked mainly for their daytime properties. This is when their neon colours, which give a unique personality to the space, catch the eye.

Phosphorescent paints

Phosphorescent paints are another popular type of glow-in-the-dark paints. They are distinguished by the fact that they are able to absorb and accumulate the energy of light and then to emit it. These paints are activated by normal light or ultraviolet, and the dye molecules absorb that energy and store it. When the source of light goes out, phosphorescent paint starts gradually emitting the accumulated energy in the form of visible glow. This glow-in-the-dark effect can last even several hours, depending on the quality of the paint and the amount of absorbed energy.

Electroluminescent paints

Electroluminescent paints are another type of paints with unique properties. They use the phenomenon of electroluminescence where the material emits glow under the influence of electric power. These paints are often used in creating dynamic and interactive light effects. The process of activation of electroluminescent paint is the flow of electric current through the surface covered with paint. This results in the emission of visible glow and creation of the effect of flickering, pulsating, or changing patterns. The effect is easily controllable – by turning the power on and off.

Why are glow-in-the-dark paints worth choosing?

Glow-in-the-dark wall paints have many advantages which contribute to their growing popularity. Among the most important ones, it is worth mentioning that they:

• enable the creation of unusual visual effects
• accentuate selected details such as images, embellishments, or inscriptions
• enable better orientation in the dark
• provide better safety by marking dangerous areas
• are durable and effective in the long term
• are non-toxic and safe for health.

Luminescent paints are therefore perfect as a decorative element of the interior. Glow-in-the-dark construction paints can be used both in bedroom and in child’s room where they create a magical atmosphere, calm down, and promote good sleep, as well as in night clubs and other entertainment venues where they can create dynamic designs, pulsating colours, or flickering light. However, these are not the only applications of luminescent paints. They are  also excellent in marking safety objects or creating interesting advertisements and light signs.

Which external glow-in-the-dark paint is the best choice?

Are you wondering which ones to choose: electroluminescent, phosphorescent, or fluorescent paints for walls? Answer this question depending on your planned project. Would you like to know more details? Contact us! As a paint manufacturer, we know everyting about glow-in-the-dark paints for both indoors and outdoors. We are happy to answer your questions and advise you on a solution for your project.

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