Everyglow High-Performance Photoluminescent Masterbatch
Photoluminescent Masterbatch is a specialized functional additive designed to provide plastic products with “glow-in-the-dark” capabilities. It consists of high-concentration long-afterglow phosphorescent pigments (typically Strontium Aluminate based) encapsulated within a polymer carrier resin (such as PE, PP, PS, or EVA).
Unlike traditional fluorescent pigments that require a constant UV source, this masterbatch absorbs energy from ambient light (sunlight or artificial light) and slowly releases it as visible light in the dark for 8 to 12+ hours.
Photoluminescent masterbatch Key Features
- Long Afterglow: Provides sustained luminescence for over 10 hours after a short exposure to light.
- High Brilliance: Initial glow intensity is significantly higher than traditional Zinc Sulfide based alternatives.
- Durability: The photoluminescent property is a physical reaction, allowing for thousands of cycles of charging and discharging without losing efficacy (service life of 15–20 years).
- Non-Toxic & Eco-Friendly: Free from radioactive elements, lead, and other hazardous heavy metals.
- Excellent Dispersibility: Engineered for uniform mixing during extrusion or injection molding, ensuring no spotting or clumping.
Photoluminescent masterbatch Technical Specifications
| Property | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Pale yellowish or light green granules |
| Glow Color | Yellow-Green , Aqua Blue , sky-blue or customize color |
| Carrier Resin | PLA / PS / PVC / PETG / TPU / PE / PP / EVA / ABS (Customizable) |
| Particle Size | 2.5 mm – 3.5 mm (granule) |
| Activation Time | 10–20 minutes (depending on light intensity) |
| Heat Resistance | Up to 280 C (depending on carrier) |
Applications
Luminous masterbatch is widely used across various industries where visibility in low-light conditions is essential for safety or aesthetics:
- Safety & Emergency: Exit signs, fire hydrant markers, emergency path markings, and safety helmets.
- Infrastructure: Road studs, tunnel markers, and stair nosing.
- Consumer Goods: Sports equipment, toys, stationery, and apparel accessories (zipper pulls, buttons).
- Electronics: Remote control covers, light switches, and phone cases.
- Packaging: Cosmetic containers and novelty caps.
Processing Guidelines
To achieve the best results, the following parameters are recommended:
Addition Ratio
- Standard Glow: 10% – 20%
- High Intensity: 25% – 40%
- Premium grade: 50%
- Note: Higher addition levels increase brightness but may affect the mechanical properties of the base polymer.
Processing Methods
- Injection Molding: Use low-to-medium shear forces.
- Extrusion: Ideal for sheets, profiles, and filaments.
- Film Blowing: Requires specialized fine-particle grades to avoid film breakage.
Critical Precautions
- Avoid Metal Friction: High-speed friction with iron or heavy metal components can gray the pigment. Use stainless steel equipment where possible.
- Moisture Control: Keep the masterbatch in a dry environment. If exposed to humidity, pre-dry at $70^\circ\text{C}$ for 2 hours.
- Compatibility: Ensure the carrier resin of the masterbatch is compatible with your base material (e.g., use a PE carrier for LDPE/HDPE products).
6. Storage and Handling
- Store in a cool, dry, and ventilated area.
- Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption.
- Shelf life is approximately 24 months when stored under optimal conditions.
