Remember those Disney movies where the princesses would dance with their prince charming on beautifully lit marbled floors that glowed in magical lights? Each one of us has always dreamt for such a thing to happen to us in real life in vain. Recently a scientist at the Universidad Michoacana de San Nicolas de Hidalgo, José Carlos Rubio wanted to see if he could figure out a way to illuminate highways and roads at night. The results of his nine years of research have brought out unexpected results. He discovered that by altering the fine structure of cement, he could design a variety that appears to glow in the dark.
According to Rubio, the light-emitting product could last for 1oo years and provide light for around 12 hours at night. The intensity of light emitted can be changed so it doesn’t overwhelm drivers or cyclists. The light glows as a cool green or blue.
Not only would the cement save power, but the process to create it is environmentally friendly as well. During manufacturing, the only thing released is water vapour.
The glowing cement can be used not only for streets but buildings as well. The technology can even be used in plaster. This glowing luminescent technology could be the answer to building more sustainable cities.
Great innovations in technology have had enormous impact on people’s lives, and changed the entire world forever. From the first electric light to the first phone call, and even the first email, innovation has moved us into a future that previous generations couldn’t have imagined.
What remains to be seen is how the architects and interior decorators of this generation use this progressive technology viably as well as effectively to suit the needs of the home owners. Imagine driving into a glowing drive way at night or a plain and simple floor by the morning turned into a myriad arrangement of colours in the evenings!
Not only does this technology cause the overhead costs of decorating the homes be reduced substantially it also does it in a responsible and eco friendly way.
This innovative research is in the final stages of commercial application and will no doubt bring about a revolution in the cement manufacturing industry because of its promise of never seen before appeal and the sheer beauty for the beholder.
We can now look forward to a more energy efficient method of lighting in place of indigenous methods with the glow in the dark technology bringing us closer to a brighter and more beautiful future.