Nemoto Japan

Phosphorescent Pigments - GSS series (zinc sulphide)

By phosphorescent pigments we mean luminous or 'glow-in-the-dark' pigments which exhibit initial fluorescence under UV excitation and then continue to emit visible light after the removal of the excitation light source.

Nemoto Portugal - GSS production unit'

Characteristics

GSS series pigments consist of fine crystals of Zinc Sulphide doped with copper which exhibit high initial brightness and typically phosphoresce for 2-4 hours. Several grades are available each with a different balance of initial brightness and afterglow time to suit the end application. Also fine particle size versions are available. The body colour is light yellow to yellowish green and the emission colour is yellowish green which is the best colour for receptivity of the human eye (530nm).
It is possible to supply coloured versions but this will always reduce the level of phosphorescence depending on the strength of the colour.

GSS pigments - Please put your mouse over the image

Applications & Handling

GSS series may be used in water-based or solvent-based paint and in screen ink formulations aswell as a range of polymers and ceramic glazes. The temperature stability is very good and they are free from cadmium, lead, mercury, chromium, antimony and selenium aswell as being free from any radioactive substances. For outdoor applications a UV absorber is recommended as Zinc Sulphide pigment can degrade under constant UV/moisture conditions to the point where it ceases to function. Gentle mixing of the pigment is recommended to prevent damage to the crystal structure. Also the use of heavy metal additives (lead, iron) should be avoided. The cycle of absorbing UV energy, storing it and re-emitting visible light is repeated over a long period of time in the correct conditions.