Phosphorescent materials work by absorbing energy from radiation, and later, they emit it as light, which can be seen once it gets dark. The process, as explained by works as follows: “By using additives, scientists are able to prevent the formation of crystals that occur normally during the production of cement, creating a material with a noncrystalline structure – similar to glass – that allows passage of light inside. Varying the proportion of additives added while manufacturing the cement regulates both its luminescent intensity and colour.”
The team asserts that the cement will be able to absorb enough energy to remain illuminated for up to 12 hours, even when the day is cloudy. However, they note that its stability should be further studied and the issue of how it should be repaired on damage must also be investigated.
Similar products have been manufactured before. For example, in the Netherlands there is a inspired by Van Gogh’s Starry Night made by covering stones with phosphorescent paint- the difference here is that the concrete itself has the phosphorescent properties built into it.
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Image Credit: Studio Roosegaarde
Source: Scientific American
