色・発色
fluorescent glass
Japanese: 蛍光ガラス
Glass that glows under ultraviolet light. Historically, uranium-doped glass (uranium glass) is well known.
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Fluorescent glass is a special type of glass that emits visible light at specific wavelengths—and thus appears to glow—when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. It exhibits fluorescence when it contains elements such as uranium, manganese, and rare earth elements. Under normal visible light, it looks just like any other colored glass, but when exposed to a black light (UV lamp), it glows vividly.
Fluorescent glass is a material that creates unique visual effects when combined with fused glass art, installations, and exhibition lighting. Since temperature control during firing may differ from standard procedures (as the fluorescent components can change at high temperatures), we recommend conducting a test firing to verify the impact on luminescent properties before using it in your final piece. Since some fluorescent glasses contain harmful components (such as uranium glass), caution is required when handling them.
Related Concepts
Comparing fluorescent glass with opal glass, coloring versus discoloration, and metal oxides makes it easier to understand the mechanism behind its coloration.
This entry is written in Japanese by Rei Chikaoka and translated for readers outside Japan. If something reads oddly, the original is the source of truth.