Unraveling Why Glow-in-the-Dark Pigments Favored by Modern Artists and Designers Don’t Last

Researchers at the College of Wooster are investigating why glow-in-the-dark pigments used by artists and designers fade over time. The study aims to develop longer-lasting phosphorescent pigments for art and fashion. The team found that many of the phosphorescent materials they tested contained inorganic compounds and mineral-based pigments that accelerate degradation. Samples from fashion collections showed that optical brighteners degrade faster than other compounds, leading to duller colors. The research highlights the challenges of preserving glow-in-the-dark artworks, as conservators must match colors under both visible and UV light while the pigments themselves change over time. The findings could help students explore careers in chemistry and art conservation. The study’s results will be presented at the American Chemical Society’s symposium in 2026.

• The team tested samples from the Indianapolis Museum of Art’s Newfield Stephen Sprouse collection, which includes fashion with bold fluorescent colors.
• They found that phosphorescent materials often contain inorganic compounds that contribute to rapid degradation.
• The research shows that prolonged exposure to high humidity can be as damaging as prolonged exposure to light.
• The findings could help art conservators develop better storage and exhibition conditions for glow-in-the-dark artworks.
• The study’s results will be presented at the American Chemical Society’s symposium in 2026.

AI-generated summary of the original article — see the source for the full story.