Ecoglo is charged by whatever light is available in the environment (whether indoors or outdoors).
It takes approximately 10 mins of sunlight or 60 mins of a 200 lux fluorescent light to fully charge Ecoglo. From fully charged Ecoglo is still visible after 11 hours.
The amount of light received will determine how long Ecoglo sustains its brightness. For example after 5 minutes of charging by a moderate light (eg 150 lux fluorescent light) Ecoglo will still be visible after 2.5 hours. After 30 minutes of charging, with the same light, Ecoglo will still be visible after 7 hours.
It takes approximately 10 minutes of sunlight to fully charge Ecoglo. From fully charged Ecoglo is still visible after 11 hours.
Note that Ecoglo is easily charged by indirect light even on an overcast day. Providing a window or skylight indoors will also be sufficient to charge Ecoglo.
We use a strong polyurethane adhesive as well as screws/fixers on the full nosings or where there is concern over how level the surface is.
It is strontium aluminate, a mineral that is mined from the earth. Ecoglo receives it in a powder form, mix it with a clear durable polymer then bake it onto aluminum to provide a highly durable product. We have tested over 100 powders to ensure we have the best one for brightness and longevity.
Yes photoluminescent systems are being added to building codes around the world. As a result of a Task Force into safety after the 2001 World Trade Center attack all office buildings in New York, over 75 feet high, must now have photoluminescent markings in all exit pathways. The reference standard RS6.1 was promulgated in May 2005, and was referenced into the New York City building code by New York City Local Law 26, 2004. Performance requirements include a minimum luminance at 90 minutes of 5mcd/m2 and conformance to tests for flammability, toxicity, radioactivity, washability and (optionally) UV stability. Ecoglo products easily meet these code requirements.
ICC has followed the lead with new code being added to Chapter 10, Means of Egress, in the 2007 International Building Code Supplement. The new code requires non electrical exit path markings in new non-residential buildings of 75ft height or more. Markings are required on all step edges and handrails, and as perimeter markings of the exit pathways, including stairwell landings. The most recent ICC code hearings have confirmed the 2007 requirements and added requirements for low level exit signs, exit door frame markings and obstruction marking. These amendments will be published in the 2009 edition of the IBC.
Fluorescent, metal halide or mercury vapour lights are great sources of UV light – the best charging light for Ecoglo. Halogen and other incandescent filament lights are not as rich in UV so will need to be brighter for Ecoglo to work as well.
Correctly installed Ecoglo will last for up to 30 years.
Tests have shown that the Ecoglo system will not be affected by most cleaning chemicals, however avoid the use of highly alkaline (greater than pH 12) undiluted cleaning chemicals.
Many Ecoglo customers use high pressure water cleaning with no affect on the product. Steam cleaning is not recommended.
Ecoglo Ltd has applied for and/or been granted patents in a wide range of jurisdictions. The patents apply to the method of production, the apparatus used in production and the product itself.
Additional patent applications have been lodged relating to advances made by Ecoglo Ltd’s ongoing research and development activities.