LUMENTIFY
The three raw materials compared
| Pigment | Granules | Glow stones | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | strontium aluminate, SiO₂-coated | pure strontium aluminate, no binder | resin with embedded pigment |
| Size | 1–150 µm (powder) | up to 1 mm | from 4 mm, any size |
| Effect | a glowing surface – the pigment disappears into the carrier | individual glowing grains, similar to sand | individual glowing stones |
| Processing | incorporate: stir in, compound, disperse | sprinkle, press in, cast in, fill | embed, lay, scatter |
| Colours | natural green, blue-green, blue, white; tinted shades | e.g. green, blue | any colour possible |
Glow pigment: when the material itself should glow
Pigment is the most versatile raw material. It is incorporated into a carrier – lacquer, paint, plastic, resin, silicone or 3D printing filament – and makes it glow as a whole. The guide value is 15–20 % pigment relative to the carrier. Particle sizes range from 1 to 150 µm: finer for smooth, thin layers, coarser for more brightness.
Suitable for: glowing lacquers and coatings, plastic components, masterbatch, cast resin and silicone parts, filaments.
Glow granules: when the grain should be visible
Granules are pure strontium aluminate in sizes up to 1 mm – the luminescent material itself, without binder. They work where the grain stays visible. Mixed into a material, they disappear below the surface.
- Surfaces: press into the fresh surface and grind, or embed under a clear, walk-resistant top coat (epoxy, exterior lacquer).
- Casting: in resin as visible grains, for example for glowing veins.
- Filling: as filling for vessels and light stores – hydrolysis-resistant, even permanently in water.
Glow stones: when it should be large and robust
From 4 mm upwards we make glow stones and pebbles from resin and glow pigment – in any colour, size and grain. Natural green and blue-green glow brightest.
Suitable for: paths, garden and landscaping, embedding in resin or concrete surfaces, and decor ranges.
Special case: concreteMixing pigment into concrete has little effect – it disappears into the material. Granules or glow stones at the surface, or a clear top coat containing pigment, work better.
Decision guide
- Should the whole part or surface glow? → pigment
- Individual glowing dots, a sand-like structure or a filling? → granules
- Visible, robust glowing elements from 4 mm? → glow stones
- Not sure? Tell us about your application – a combination often makes sense, for example pigment in the coating and granules at the surface.