How to Make Something Glow in the Dark

Some glow in the dark products--like the dials on an expensive watch--are made using radioactive elements like radium. Fortunately, you don't need to use anything radioactive to create a glow in the dark effect. Scientists create glow in the dark plastics by mixing phosphors into the plastic during the production process. You can achieve a similar effect by mixing powdered phosphors into paint.

Things You'll Need

• Clear acrylic paint
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Mix a phosphor powder or glow powder, such as powdered zinc sulfide or strontium aluminate into clear paint.

2. Apply this mixed paint to the item you want to glow in the dark.

3. Let the paint dry.

4. Charge the phosphors in the paint by placing it under a strong light or out in the sun.

5. Place the charged item in a dark room, or wait for night to come. You might also be able to see the glow if you hold it in your cupped hands.

6. Recharge the item under sunlight or a bright light once the glow fades.

Resources

• Glow powder for sale