Light-Emitting Cement| How Cement Generates Light?

Imagine a world where highways, roads, and bike lanes illuminate themselves without using any electricity. With the development of light-emitting cement, this dream is becoming a reality. This innovative cement technology harnesses solar energy during the day and radiates light at night, revolutionizing green construction and energy-efficient designs.

In this article, we will explore the fascinating world of light-emitting cement, its principles, composition, and potential applications.

Introduction to Light-Emitting Cement

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Light-emitting cement is a green construction material designed to light up highways, roads, and bicycle lanes without the need for electricity. This cutting-edge creation was developed by Dr. Jose Carlos Rubio from the Michoacan University of Saint Nicholas of Hidalgo in Mexico. His research focused on modifying the microstructure of cement to absorb solar energy and emit light in the darkness, which has led to a breakthrough in cement technology.

The potential applications for light-emitting cement are vast, including architectural markets such as facades, swimming pools, bathrooms, kitchens, parking lots, and more. It can also be utilized in road safety and road signs, in the energy sector, like oil platforms, and anywhere that requires illumination or marking spaces without access to electricity. 

The durability of light-emitting cement is estimated to be greater than 100 years, thanks to its inorganic nature, and its material components are easily recyclable.

Principle Behind Light-Emitting Cement

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One of the primary challenges faced by researchers in developing light-emitting cement was altering the cement's microstructure to allow the penetration and absorption of light.

Cement is an opaque material that does not allow light to pass through its interior. When water is added to cement, crystal flakes are formed as a result of a hydration reaction, and these crystals block the absorption of solar energy.

Dr. Rubio's main objective was to modify this microstructure of cement to eliminate the crystals, allowing incoming light to penetrate deep into the cement or concrete structure. The cement is also made phosphorescent so that solar energy is absorbed and released.

 

How Light-Emitting Cement Works?

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During the daytime, the light-emitting cement structure acts as a storage device, soaking in sunlight and exciting the electrons within the mass. At night, these electrons return to their original state, emitting light in the process. This cement can provide continuous light for up to 12 hours without using any electricity.

Most fluorescent materials made out of plastic have a lifespan of around three years, as they decay with the absorption of ultraviolet rays. However, Dr. Rubio claims that light-emitting cement is a sun-resistant cement with a lifespan of 100 years.

When used on highways, the intensity of light-emitted by the cement can be regulated to avoid unnecessary glare for drivers and cyclists.

 

Composition of Light-Emitting Cement

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Light-emitting cement is made out of sand, silica, industrial waste, alkali, and water. To give it the light-generating property, the materials go through a polycondensation process performed at room temperature. This process is both energy-efficient and eco-friendly, producing low pollution compared to other types of cement, such as Portland or synthetic plastics.

The chemical reaction between these raw materials produces a strong mixture that looks like a gel. It also gives fewer amounts of unwanted crystal flakes. The only residue left after its production is steam, making the product and its manufacturing process environmentally friendly. The material is currently manufactured in green or blue.

During the manufacturing process, scientists add certain additives to alter the optical properties of the material, converting it into a phosphorescent material. This change results in a non-crystalline structure similar to glass, which allows the passage of light.

This type of cement contains phosphors that absorb and store energy from various light sources. When the light diminishes, the phosphors release the stored energy as visible light, producing an enchanting glow. Phosphorescent cement finds applications in pathway markers, architectural elements, and artistic installations, captivating viewers with its mesmerizing radiance.

 

Commercialization and Global Interest

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The development of light-emitting cement has captured the attention of several countries, reflecting the commercial demand for this material. Currently, research is being carried out to move into the commercialization stage, with investors from Chile, Spain, Argentina, and Brazil expressing interest in bringing this material to market for use in roads and other urban spaces in 2016.

The inclusion of light-emitting cement with plaster and other construction products is also under research and development, further expanding the potential applications of this innovative material.

 

Environmental Benefits of Light-Emitting Cement

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The use of light-emitting cement offers numerous environmental benefits compared to traditional lighting and construction methods. Some of these benefits include:

 

Energy Efficiency

By absorbing solar energy during the day and emitting light at night, light-emitting cement eliminates the need for electricity in illuminating roads, highways, and bicycle lanes. This can significantly reduce energy consumption and our reliance on nonrenewable resources.

 

Eco-Friendly Manufacturing

The production process of light-emitting cement is environmentally friendly, as it requires low energy consumption and produces minimal pollution. The only residue left after production is steam, making it a sustainable alternative to conventional cement.

 

Recyclable Materials

The inorganic nature of light-emitting cement allows its material components to be easily recycled, reducing waste and promoting sustainability in construction.

 

Long Lifespan

With a lifespan of over 100 years, light-emitting cement boasts durability that surpasses most other fluorescent materials, leading to less frequent replacements and reduced waste.

 

Challenges and Future Developments

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Despite the numerous advantages of light-emitting cement, some challenges still need to be addressed for its widespread adoption. Some of these challenges include:

 

Cost

The production of light-emitting cement may be more expensive than traditional cement, potentially limiting its use in large-scale projects. However, as the technology advances and becomes more widespread, production costs are expected to decrease.

 

Regulation

The intensity of light emitted by light-emitting cement must be regulated to avoid unnecessary glare for drivers and cyclists. This requires further research and development to ensure the safe use of this material in various applications.

 

Commercialization

The transition from research and development to commercialization can be a lengthy and complex process. Light-emitting cement must undergo rigorous testing and approval procedures before it can be widely used in construction projects.

Despite these challenges, the future of light-emitting cement remains promising. As technology advances and more research is conducted, we can expect to see this innovative material incorporated into an increasing number of green construction projects worldwide.

 

Conclusion

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Light-emitting cement has the potential to revolutionize green construction and energy-efficient designs. With its unique ability to absorb solar energy and emit light, this innovative material offers numerous environmental benefits and a wide range of applications.

As research continues and commercialization efforts progress, we can look forward to a future where light-emitting cement plays a significant role in creating sustainable, energy-efficient spaces.