Which pigment is used in modern long-lasting glow-in-the-dark products, and why?

Strontium aluminate is used in modern glow-in-the-dark products. Strontium aluminate glows brighter and for much longer than the older zinc sulphide pigments.

Why are phosphorescent materials used on emergency exit signs and escape routes?

Phosphorescent signs keep glowing if the power fails and the lights go out. The signs need no electricity or wiring and guide people to safety in darkness.

Give examples of phosphorescent pigments in consumer products.

Phosphorescent pigments are used on watch hands, light switches and torches so they can be found in the dark. Phosphorescent pigments also appear in toys and novelty stickers.

CCEA A-Level Technology and Design 8900

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Composite and Emerging Materials

Phosphorescent pigments, reflective films and holograms

3 things to know
AS 1 Paper 1

Overview

Phosphorescence against fluorescence, glow-in-the-dark pigments and their uses, retroreflective and metallised films, and holograms for security and brand protection.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Your recallNot started

Key term

What is a phosphorescent pigment?

Key term

How does phosphorescence differ from fluorescence?

Key term

Why does the glow from a phosphorescent pigment fade over time?

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1
What is a phosphorescent pigment?
Model answer
A phosphorescent pigment absorbs light energy and releases it slowly as visible light. The pigment glows in the dark after the light source is removed.
2
How does phosphorescence differ from fluorescence?
Model answer
A fluorescent material emits light only while it is being lit. A phosphorescent material stores the energy and keeps glowing after the light is removed.
3
Why does the glow from a phosphorescent pigment fade over time?
Model answer
The stored energy is released gradually, so the light given out becomes weaker. The pigment must be exposed to light again to recharge its glow.
4
Which pigment is used in modern long-lasting glow-in-the-dark products, and why?
Model answer
Strontium aluminate is used in modern glow-in-the-dark products. Strontium aluminate glows brighter and for much longer than the older zinc sulphide pigments.
5
Why are phosphorescent materials used on emergency exit signs and escape routes?
Model answer
Phosphorescent signs keep glowing if the power fails and the lights go out. The signs need no electricity or wiring and guide people to safety in darkness.
6
Give examples of phosphorescent pigments in consumer products.
Model answer
Phosphorescent pigments are used on watch hands, light switches and torches so they can be found in the dark. Phosphorescent pigments also appear in toys and novelty stickers.

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