Glow of success for new plastics technology and glow in the dark torch

New glow-in the-dark plastic technology has enabled researchers to develop a torch that glows in the dark, so you can find it in the dark. Collaboration between DualGlo Ltd, a Hereford technology company and Innovation-Direct, a free consultancy service for SME companies delivered by the Universities of Warwick and Wolverhampton, has developed a unique product that is now entering markets all around the world.

After turning to the Innovation Direct advice centre DualGlo Ltd, a small technology business, is now selling its products in China, New Zealand, the USA and throughout Europe. The partnership has led to the development of new merchandise, new materials and processes that has enabled the company to develop a new generation of coloured luminous technology.

The GloTorch is made from unique ’’DualGlo’’ plastic that naturally absorbs light (artificial or sunlight) and then glows brightly in the dark. Just 10 minutes exposure provides 8 hours of glow, and a stronger light-source means DualGlow products recharge even quicker. The torch is useful when travelling, camping, or participating in out-door sports such as night fishing.

The new colours glow up to 7 times brighter than old style materials, and unlike previous technology, the luminous DualGlo materials are an ingredient added to the manufactured goods during production, so are part of the product, rather than a surface coating. DualGlo Technology is currently being added to machine washable textiles that are to be used in a wide variety of fashion, safety, sporting and military applications.

The masterbatch, which consists of additives for polymers that are added to plastics and other materials, can be used to develop safety signs that glow in the dark, automotive industry parts, such as glove-box fittings that are easy to locate and life-saving equipment, such as lifebelts.