Glow Stick FAQ

What is a glow stick?

A glow stick is a single-use transparent plastic tube including isolated materials which when combined are capable of generating light through a chemical reaction-induced chemo luminescence which does not need an electrical power supply.

What makes them work?

Light is generated by a chemical reaction called “chemiluminescence". Typical glow sticks as chemical reactants use: a hydrogen peroxide solution which is called the "activator", a solution of phenyl oxalate ester and a fluorescent dye which makes the color. The activator is stored in a thin glass capsule. When the glass capsule is broken by flexing a glow stick, the activator is released, and mixing the components by shaking the glow stick to initiate the reaction. Depending on components used, the chemical reaction can last from a few minutes to many hours. Heating the glow sticks will speed up the reaction, but will shorten the glow time. 

How long have glow sticks been around?

In 1976 a patent was originated for a Chemiluminescent Signal Device.  It was improved upon in 1977 when a steel ball was put in the glow stick to more easily break the glass vile

How to activate them?                                                            

To activate:
bend (to break the internal glass capsule)
shake (until it glows evenly)

Note: Do not bend activated glow sticks any more; excessive bending may break the plastic tube what will result in leakage

How long do they last?                                                             

Glow in the dark products will glow 5 to 12 hours, depending on size, color, type and the ambient air temperature.

What makes glowstickfactory products special?

Frequently, glow products are described as novelty grade. These are expected to glow only 6-12 hours. To get really long lasting glow, alot of vendors charge more. At glowstickfactory.com, we would be mortified to hear that one of our products glowed for ONLY twelve hours. Conditions vary and heat will reduce glow time, but even so we expect our products to glow for 18-24 hours. Most of what we sell will still be glowing two days after activation. The record so far is 80 hours for a 1.75 inch Megasuperglow. Your results will vary, but our products use the highest quality chemicals and are designed for brightness and longevity.

How to turn them off?                                                               

They cannot be turned off once activated, they will not stop glowing until the chemical reaction has finished.

Does temperature affect the glow time?   
 

            
Yes, it does. Higher temperatures will make glow stick glow brighter but will shorten the glow time. With lower temperatures the glow will be a little bit duller but will glow for a longer period of time. Dexing products give maximum bright light when used at temperatures ranging from 59°F-100°F. If the temperature is higher than 100°F, bright light will be at the maximum but the length of glow will decrease. If less than 59°F, bright light will be minimal but the length of glow will be increased

Can they be re-charged after they stop glowing?

No, there is no way of re-charging or re-activating. Once the process of glowing comes to an end, light stick should be disposed.

Are glow sticks waterproof?

Yes, glow sticks are waterproof and can be used underwater for night diving, surfing or pool parties, which provide a great amount of fun in any swimming pool after dark.

How to store light sticks?                                       

Glow sticks should be stored in a cool dry place, in their original packaging, away from direct sunlight. Heat and humidity will shorten their life span.

What is glowsticking?

Glowsticking is a form of dance that incorporates glow sticks, we have an article that is devoted entirely to answering this question.

What is the shelf life of light sticks?                                             

Depending on the type of product and storage conditions, most items in which are foil wrapped will have a shelf life of up to 3 years or more. Items that are not wrapped in foil will have a shorter life span approximately 8-12 months depending on the heat and humidity.

What happens if I get the chemicals on my clothes?

With normal use this is not an issue, but if you happen to puncture the outer tube and get fluid on your clothes simply wash with warm soapy water. In case of accidental spillage:
* Skin/Body - wash affected area with water.
* Clothing - Wash stained area with warm soapy water and  allow soaking for 24 hrs if stain remains dry cleaning is advised.
* Contact with skin or eyes may cause temporary discomfort.Eventlink does not recommend products be broken or liquid poured onto skin. Our products are safe for all users though we recommend that children under 5 must have adult supervision. Do not puncture or split open.

Note: Do not bend activated glow sticks any more; excessive bending may break the plastic tube what will result in leakage.

Are glow sticks safe?  

The liquid light source is non-toxic, no heat or harmful radiation is produced. Contact with the eyes or ingesting of the fluid should be avoided, as irritation will result. There is also the possibility of allergic reaction, please keep in mind that under normal use you will never come in contact with the fluid.

Safety Note:

*The activated liquid even though non-toxic may contain tiny shards of glass which may cause injury should the light stick be punctured or split open. The liquid can permanently stain clothing or furniture and can cause skin or eye irritation. Some light stick products may contain small elements, posing choking hazards.

**Light sticks are not suitable for children under 5 years of age without adult supervision. Do not puncture or split open.

Do you have a question about glow sticks that we didn't cover?  We will answer any questions you have about glow sticks and if your question is interesting enough we will include it in our FAQ with a "sumitted by Shopper U." notation.  Contact Us.