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When disaster strikes, such as during a fire, the environment can quickly become chaotic and disorienting. Thick smoke, power failures, and the stress of an emergency situation can make it difficult for occupants to find their way to safety. This is where luminescent lighting plays a crucial role in fire safety, guiding people to exits and ensuring that evacuation routes are clearly visible.
Photoluminescent pigments are materials that absorb energy from light and then re-emit that energy as visible light, creating a glow-in-the-dark effect. These pigments are commonly used in safety applications, such as emergency signs, and can be mixed with various materials like paint, plastic, ceramics, glass, and fibers. The pigments are not radioactive or toxic, making them a safe and sustainable choice for a wide range of applications.
Photoluminescent pigments contain inorganic chemical compounds, typically composed of aggregated crystal elements. When exposed to light, these compounds absorb energy and then release it over time as a glowing effect. The pigments can absorb a wide spectrum of visible light and re-emit it, allowing them to "charge" under different lighting conditions and glow in the dark without the need for electrical power.
Photoluminescent technology has evolved over the decades. In the 1970s, phosphorous pigments were used to create safety markings, but they had limited absorption capacity and required electric power to boost their glow. In the 1980s, stronger pigments made of zinc sulfide crystals were developed. However, the real breakthrough came in the 1990s with the introduction of strontium aluminate powder, which could fully charge in about 20 minutes and provide light for more than 10 hours. These advancements have made photoluminescent pigments more efficient and effective in various applications.
To understand how photoluminescent pigments perform, it's helpful to know a few key terms related to light and brightness:
Lumens are typically measured using an integrating sphere, which calculates the total light output in all directions. Millicandela, however, is highly dependent on the angle at which the light is emitted, which is why high-brightness LEDs designed for illumination are typically measured in lumens, while indication LEDs are measured in millicandela.
The type of light used to charge photoluminescent pigments affects their performance. Fluorescent, LED, and halogen lights are more effective than incandescent bulbs because they produce more light and less heat. Sunlight can also be used, but it may cause signs and labels to fade over time.
Proximity to the light source also plays a role in how effectively photoluminescent materials charge. The closer the material is to the light source, the more light it absorbs, resulting in a brighter glow. As few as 5 foot-candles of light (equivalent to a 15-watt bulb) can be used to charge photoluminescent labels and signs.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) requires that photoluminescent exit enclosures be continuously illuminated for at least 60 minutes before a building is occupied. This ensures that the markings have time to fully charge and provide adequate illumination during emergencies.
Under typical stairwell lighting, photoluminescent signs and labels can take 30 to 60 minutes to fully recharge and then emit a steady glow for about eight hours. This provides a reliable source of illumination during power outages or emergencies, enhancing safety and compliance with building codes.
Photoluminescent pigments offer a versatile and energy-efficient solution for glow-in-the-dark applications. Their ability to gather energy from light and re-emit it without the need for electricity makes them a valuable resource in safety and other industries. Understanding how they work and the factors that affect their performance can help you make informed decisions about using them in your projects.
Photoluminescent egress path marking systems are an important life safety requirement in current building codes. These systems allow for the safe and quick evacuation of buildings in the case of an emergency. They provide a routing system that is not dependent on electrical power that can easily be followed in dark and smoke-filled exit pathways. Nystrom offers a full line of photoluminescent products. For more information, please visit our website or contact our Sales & Customer Support team.
In the realm of safety and emergency preparedness, luminous egress markings have emerged as a groundbreaking solution, revolutionizing the way we navigate buildings during low-light or emergency situations. These luminous markings, designed to glow in the dark, serve a crucial role in enhancing evacuation procedures and ensuring the safety of occupants. Let's delve into the myriad benefits that make luminous egress markings an indispensable feature in modern building design.
In today's fast-paced world, safety is a paramount concern for businesses, organizations, and individuals alike. Ensuring the well-being of everyone within a building, whether it's a workplace, commercial space, or public facility, is of utmost importance. That's where Nystrom steps in to lend a helping hand with a wide range of safety solutions designed to protect, guide, and enhance the overall safety experience.