Glow in the Dark Pigment Guide for Epoxy Resin
What Is Glow in the Dark Pigment?
Glow in the dark pigment, also called photoluminescent pigment, is a powder that absorbs light energy and re-emits it as a visible glow in low-light or dark conditions. It is mixed into epoxy resin the same way as mica powder and becomes permanently encapsulated in the cured piece.
Unlike mica or glitter which are purely decorative, glow pigment adds a functional, interactive quality to a piece. It transforms in different lighting conditions, making it one of the most unique and conversation-starting additives available in resin art.
How Glow Pigment Works
Glow pigment works through a process called photoluminescence. The pigment particles contain a compound, most commonly strontium aluminate, that absorbs photons from light sources including sunlight, UV light, and standard indoor lighting. When the light source is removed, the stored energy is slowly released as visible light, creating the characteristic glow effect.
The glow is not permanent. It fades gradually over several hours as the stored energy is depleted. The piece then recharges the next time it is exposed to light. This charge and release cycle can repeat indefinitely without any degradation of the pigment.
What Color Does It Glow?
The most common glow pigment colors are aqua green, blue, and purple. Aqua green is the brightest and longest-lasting glow and is the most widely used. Blue glow pigment is slightly dimmer but has a cooler, more ethereal quality. Purple glow pigment is the most subtle and works best in pieces where a soft, ambient glow is the goal rather than a bright effect.
During the day or under normal lighting, glow pigment appears as a soft off-white or pale cream color. The glow color only becomes visible in low light or darkness.
How to Mix Glow Pigment Into Resin
Mix your resin fully before adding glow pigment. Add the pigment a little at a time and stir gently to incorporate. A loading rate of 10 to 20 percent pigment by weight of resin is recommended for a strong glow effect. Higher concentrations produce a brighter, longer-lasting glow. Lower concentrations produce a subtler effect.
Glow pigment particles are heavier than mica and will settle toward the bottom of the mold during curing. Since the bottom of the mold becomes the top surface of the finished piece, this natural settling actually concentrates the glow effect right at the surface where it is most visible. You can also stir the resin periodically during the early stages of curing to keep the pigment more evenly distributed if you prefer.
Charging Your Glow Piece
To get the best glow, expose your piece to a bright light source for at least 10 to 30 minutes before moving to a dark environment. Direct sunlight and UV lamps produce the fastest and strongest charge. Standard indoor lighting also works but may require a longer charge time. The brighter and more direct the light source, the stronger and longer the glow will be.
How Long Does the Glow Last?
After a full charge, a high-quality glow pigment piece will glow visibly for 4 to 8 hours. The glow is brightest in the first 30 to 60 minutes and gradually fades to a softer ambient glow over the remaining hours. The piece will fully recharge with the next light exposure.
Best Applications for Glow Pigment
Glow pigment works especially well in lamp bases, where the piece is regularly exposed to light from the LED and then glows softly when the lamp is off. Coasters are another great application since they sit on a surface and can be appreciated in low-light evening settings. Decorative trays with glow pigment create a dramatic effect when the lights go down.
Glow pieces make exceptional gifts because of their interactive, surprising quality. They are a conversation starter in any room.
Combining Glow Pigment With Other Colorants
Glow pigment can be combined with mica powder, glitter, and foil flakes. However, keep in mind that opaque colorants like heavy mica concentrations can reduce the visibility of the glow by blocking the light emission. For the strongest glow effect, use glow pigment in a clear or lightly tinted base. For a more subtle glow accent, combine it with a deeper mica color and accept that the glow will be softer.
Caring for Glow Resin Pieces
Glow pigment is fully encapsulated in cured resin and will not degrade, fade, or lose its photoluminescent properties over time. The glow cycle can repeat indefinitely. Clean your pieces with a soft damp cloth and avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface and reduce the clarity of the glow effect.
Learn More
Glow pigment is one of five colorants and additives I use in my work. Explore the full Color Choices Guide to learn about mica powder, glitter, alcohol ink, and foil flakes. Have a question? Contact me directly or shop all products.