Luminophore

A phosphor is a material which glows in the dark, after it has been previously exposed to shorter wavelength light. The phenomenon is due to phosphorescence or fluorescence.

Through long period of time afterglow phosphorescence luminophores ( escape route) and of decorations are used for the production of safety signs. For luminophores, the afterglow by fluorescence, there are many useful applications, such as fluorescent lamps or for medicinal purposes.

Dials of watches and display devices in aircraft previously contained radioactive material, which in turn stimulated phosphors. Today, however, only luminophores are mostly used.

A chemical compound such as Luminol or luciferin is a luminophore if it. At a specific reaction, usually to oxidation with oxygen or hydrogen peroxide, to an excited product reacts, which then emit radiation in the visible region In this case one speaks of chemiluminescence.