How to create photoluminescent epoxy resins ?

Phosphorescent resin pours have been popularized by several projects widely shared on the web. Let’s take a closer look at which epoxy resin colorant to use – especially when working with phosphorescent powder. The technique is quite simple, as it only involves mixing the phosphorescent powder into any type of epoxy resin. Instead of just explaining the process, we will detail the mistakes to avoid and the pitfalls to watch out for.

First of all, is it dangerous to use these products? No, although the pigments should not be inhaled or ingested, they are completely safe under normal usage conditions. The product is neither radioactive nor toxic.

Regarding the application process, it is important to prepare the ingredients, the scale, a mixing container, and a stirring stick. It is also essential to avoid all metal containers. It is best to use plastic, glass, or ceramic containers. Next, it is necessary to determine the correct amount of pigment to incorporate to achieve an effective phosphorescent effect.

What Amount of Phosphorescent Powder Should Be Added to Epoxy Resin?

The dosage of strontium aluminate powder is measured by weight. Generally, 1 to 10% of the final resin mass (without the hardener) is added. It is essential to incorporate the pigments first, before adding the hardener.
How can you determine the exact quantity to use? If you are pouring a 1 cm layer or a 10 cm layer, it would be pointless to add ten times more pigment for the deeper pour.

It is more effective to base the phosphorescent powder quantity on the surface area (m²) rather than the total volume of epoxy resin. The key factor is ensuring that the phosphorescent powder properly diffuses light at the surface. Therefore, the standard rule is to use 200g to 250g per m² for a brightly glowing phosphorescent resin. For the resin mixture itself, the recommended ratio is: 10% pigment for a 1 mm layer, 1-3% pigment for a 1 cm layer, 1% pigment for a 10 cm layer, Other important factors include the type and color of the phosphorescent powder.

What type of phosphorescent powder Should Be Used for Epoxy Resin?

There are both fine and coarse phosphorescent powders, ranging from just a few micrometers (µm, thousandths of a millimeter) to over a hundred microns.

Larger pigments glow more intensely and for a longer duration, while smaller pigments diffuse light more efficiently because they are more numerous.

For phosphorescent epoxy resin, it is recommended to use the finest powders (1-5µm or 5-15µm). These are the lightest particles and the only ones that will remain suspended in the resin until it fully cures.

About mixing the Resin

The pigments must be added to the resin before mixing in the hardener. Once the hardener is added, there will be no time to calculate or weigh additional pigment!

Additionally, choosing the right resin is crucial—opt for a fast-curing resin. If the resin takes too long to cure, the heavy pigments will sink to the bottom, affecting the final appearance.

Coloring epoxy resin with pearlescent powders
How to add color to epoxy resin using liquid dyes
Using phosphorescent powder to tint epoxy resin
How to create a matte epoxy resin finish?