Today traffic has changed so much that pedestrians and drivers are required to comply with all rules and regulations. Wearing reflective clothing and accessories is considered the most important. There are various bracelets, paints, headbands on the market. But if you want to add a reflective print yourself, you will need quality paint. It is sold in cans or cans. Such material will allow you to quickly add glow to the elements of clothing, roadside fencing.


What is reflective paint - characteristics and composition


The main characteristics and properties of the paint were obtained thanks to a special ball. Inside, it is mixed with transparent varnish. Pigments must perform an important task: when light from any source comes in, make sure that the painted surface starts to glow. If we talk about a varnish with a reflective effect, a ratio of 1: 3 is considered ideal (1 part pigment and 3 parts dye). Some people think that more balls will produce a long and strong glow. However, this is not true. The base should be selected in accordance with the material of the surface on which you intend to apply the substance.


Be sure to study the composition that the manufacturer indicates on the product packaging. There should be information about what materials you can work with. The reflective balls themselves will fit perfectly on any surface. The paint dries in about 1 hour if the air temperature is at least 22 degrees Celsius.


Where is reflective paint used


The main purpose of such products is a decorative function or marking ... It is especially often used when it is necessary to highlight an object in the dark. Even under rather difficult climatic conditions, the substance dries up, so it can be used almost everywhere. If you want to decorate any object, it is worth additionally applying transparent varnish on top after the paint has dried. So you will achieve a glossy texture.


Spray paint, which is sold in special cans, has become very popular recently. It can be applied very quickly, and a person does not need special skills or abilities. Aerosol varnish is used after purchase, without prior preparation.


Varieties


There are two main categories of reflective paints that are quite similar to each other, but still have significant differences. Therefore, it is recommended to always study the main characteristics of the product before purchasing. There are the following types:

  • Luminescent varnishes - the ability to accumulate light from artificial sources or the sun, and then give it back in the dark for 8-12 hours, which allows you to save energy (the light is soft, pleasant for eye);
  • Fluorescent compounds - the coating is not able to accumulate the energy of the source, and the glow appears only when at least a little light falls on the surface (on a dark road, in the light of headlights this is how signs and markings work ).

The latter option is widely used to create reflective wardrobe items. Especially often they make overalls and sleeveless jackets from it. Often the paint is used to decorate the premises of nightclubs, restaurants and bars. With its help, the walls are decorated in a unique and unusual way.


Luminescent varnishes are used to a limited extent, since they contain substances that are toxic to health. For example, if they are made on the basis of phosphorus, then they cannot be taken even to decorate a residential building.


Do they harm the body


Fluorescent paints are produced according to a complex process , therefore, the costs cannot be avoided here. The most harmful to humans is phosphorus, which is part of some mixtures. But many modern varnishes glow due to the special structure of substances in the form of crystals. It is impossible to find radioactive components inside. The radiation of light passes in the range visible to the human eye, which makes the mixture non-toxic.


Today, even compounds that can be applied to the body are isolated. They fully meet hygienic standards, are sold with safety certificates for consumers.


Application Technique


Using the formulations in a spray can, you can completely dispense with the preparatory steps. They are ready to use after purchase.


Be sure to prepare the surface first. Remove any foreign parts, stains, dirt, grease, rust. One (several) cans are enough for a small area. There is no point in buying a whole can. Otherwise, stock up on rollers, spray guns or brushes. To work requires room temperature and low humidity. Only then will you get the perfect result.