Why Do Highlighters Glow Brighter in the Sun? | Wanlong

The fluorescent pen that we usually use to underline books seems to suddenly "brighten" when exposed to the sun. Is it brighter than under indoor lights? Today, we will discuss why fluorescent pens appear brighter in the sun.

Fluorescent powder

1. What is a fluorescent pen and what is inside it?

A fluorescent pen, also known as a fluorescent marker, is a high-brightness pen often used to mark key content, such as key sentences in textbooks, words to be memorized for exams, or key information in work reports. Its color is generally bright, such as yellow-green, orange, pink, and blue.
Unlike ordinary colored pens, a substance called "fluorescent dye" or "fluorescent powder" is added to the fluorescent pen as ink. This material makes the fluorescent pen "shine" under light.

2. How does it "glow"?

Fluorescent powder is a material that can absorb light (especially ultraviolet rays) and then release it. Scientifically, this phenomenon is called "fluorescence."
In simple terms:
1. Absorb ultraviolet light (or other high-energy light) in the light;
2. Convert this energy into visible light 
3. "Emit" the light in a very short time (usually within a few milliseconds);
4. We see it "glowing".

3. Why is it brighter in the sun?

This is the crux of the problem - the sun not only has visible light, but also a lot of ultraviolet light. The energy of ultraviolet light is very high, which is suitable for exciting phosphors to emit stronger light.
Indoors, the ultraviolet content of ordinary LED lights or incandescent lamps is very low, so although the color of the fluorescent pen is still bright, there is no "glowing" feeling.
Outdoor, the intensity of ultraviolet light is much greater, and the fluorescent powder is greatly excited, so it will naturally emit stronger light, which looks "brighter" than indoors.
In other words:
Indoor lighting: The fluorescent powder is less excited and looks ordinary.
Sunlight exposure: More ultraviolet light, the fluorescent powder is more excited, so it is particularly bright.

4. How can teenagers use fluorescent pens safely?

Although fluorescent pens are common, there are a few points to note:
1. Do not apply fluorescent pens on the skin: Some fluorescent dyes may irritate the skin.
2. Do not expose books to the sun for a long time: the areas drawn with fluorescent pens are prone to fading or oxidation;
3. Buy regular brand products: three-no products may contain toxic ingredients, especially cheap fluorescent powder.

Where can you buy Fluorescent pigments in bulk?

Fluorescent pigments emit bright, visible light under ultraviolet or other light sources and are widely used in various applications, including fluorescent coatings, stationery, textiles, plastics, advertising signage, and electronic displays. As a professional Daylight fluorescent pigment ingredients.  supplier and manufacturer, Wanlong Chemical Co., LTD. has nearly 10 years of experience in supplying and exporting fluorescent pigment ingredients from China. You can confidently purchase fluorescent powder from Wanlong Chemical Co., LTD. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us and we will get back to you within 1 business day.

If you have needs please contact us.

Established in 1989, Wanlong Chemical Co., LTD. has been focusing on polymer synthesis and fine chemical intermediates research and development and production for nearly 40 years, and has developed three business systems - polymer materials, organic dyes and chemical intermediates, including Fluorescent pigment powder. We offer wholesale prices for bulk purchases, even for small quantities, and offer a free sample to potential customers. If you have needs please contact us.


Post time: 2025-05-09 17:30:55