The Use of Photoluminescent Materials in Design
With the current political environment is focused on keeping everything as green as possible, the use of photoluminescent materials in sustainable building design is an idea whose time has come. The use of photoluminescent emergency exit signs and other indicators self-luminous exit is an easy choice considering all the benefits payable. Let’s take a brief look at some of the reasons why using this type of emergency exit signs is a great idea.
First, photoluminescent materials are as environmentally friendly as you can get. These exit signs use no electricity, no batteries consume, and are virtually maintenance free. No wiring harder, having to look for electrical problems, or the constant purchase and disposal of batteries. You simply mount these output signals to the wall and forget about them. They collect and store ambient light that is available when the building is in use, and make energy available when an emergency need. If necessary, these photoluminescent exit signs can store enough of this energy to stay lit for up to three days. Are visible at a distance of about 100 meters in darkness or smoke, which acts as a beacon during a blackout or fire.
As a result of energy conservation, these photoluminescent exit signs can save your company thousands of dollars a year in energy costs and dramatically improve the carbon footprint left by your building. The use of photoluminescent materials in sustainable building design can reduce air pollution by nearly half a million pounds of CO2 compared to incandescent signs over the life of the product. They are also 100% recyclable, and when or if you ever have need for them, they can simply enter the metal recycling container near you. They are easy to install and very easy to move, if necessary, simply move the installation to the new location.
Compare this with hands-on time and energy required by incandescent signs and the other option, the signs of tritium. incandescent exit signs pose problems such as replacement, electrical issues, and more. Tritium exit signs are a different matter, and have a large number of undesirable issues. They are made of a radioactive substance are monitored and regulated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and require special treatment by a certified expert on hazardous materials to dispose of properly. In addition, no longer manufactured in the U.S. because of environmental concerns and now must be imported from abroad. There are other issues to consider, but I think the toxic waste is not just enough for anyone!
