Photoluminescent film turns stored light into a visible afterglow. For sign makers, converters and distributors, the key choices are the film material, finished dimensions, processing method and required glow duration.
Xingyuan supplies PET and PVC photoluminescent film in a standard 1.24 m × 50 m roll format, with custom slitting, cut sizes, shapes and die cutting. PET options suit cut lettering and slit strips; PVC options are available for printed graphics. Afterglow options include 4, 6, 8 and 10 hours.
What is photoluminescent film?
Photoluminescent film, also called glow-in-the-dark film or luminous film, absorbs energy from suitable light and releases it as an afterglow when the surroundings become dark. The film does not need an electrical connection to glow, but it does need adequate exposure to light beforehand.
This differs from retroreflective material, which returns incoming light toward its source. A luminous graphic is selected for its afterglow; a reflective graphic is selected for visibility when illuminated. Choose the effect that fits the intended use.
From full rolls to finished markings
The photographs below show roll production and packaging, followed by examples of narrower converted material. The tape examples illustrate possible finished formats rather than the width of the standard film roll.
PET or PVC: start with the production process
The most useful starting point is what you plan to make. Cut letters and marking strips call for a different workflow from printed signs or decorative graphics.
| Material | Processing options | Typical finished formats |
|---|---|---|
| PET film | Cut lettering, slitting and shape conversion | Letters, numbers, arrows, narrow marking strips and die-cut decals |
| PVC film | Printing, including suitable inkjet workflows; custom converting | Printed sign faces, labels, patterned graphics and decorative decals |
For PET lettering and cutting, share the artwork, smallest feature size and finished dimensions. A trial cut helps establish the right settings for the selected film and liner.
For PVC printing, share the printer model, ink system and artwork. Compatibility should be checked on the exact film grade. Heavy ink coverage or additional layers can change the visible glow, so assess the finished printed sample as well as the unprinted film.
Standard roll size and custom converting
The standard roll size for the range described here is 1.24 m wide × 50 m long. Full rolls can be supplied for further processing, or converted to suit your product design.
- Slitting: narrower rolls for strips, borders and repeated marking applications.
- Cut sizes: sheets or pieces matched to sign panels, label layouts and production needs.
- Custom shapes and die cutting: arrows, circles, letters, symbols and other artwork-based shapes.
Include width, length, quantity and measurement units in the enquiry. For shaped pieces, provide the outline, corner details and preferred supply format, such as individual pieces or pieces retained on a release liner. Final dimensions and tolerances are confirmed for the design.
Choose from 4, 6, 8 or 10-hour afterglow options
Specify the duration required for your application, then match it with the relevant grade. A longer stated duration does not by itself establish the brightness of a finished sign at a particular time.
Afterglow gradually fades. The hour rating is not a promise of constant brightness for that entire period. Charging light, exposure time, surrounding light, the selected grade and the measurement threshold all affect the result. Compare grades under the same conditions and request the applicable brightness data.
For an informed comparison, ask for the charging source and exposure conditions, luminance at stated elapsed times, and the endpoint used for the duration rating. Evaluate a sample under the lighting conditions expected at the installation.
Main application areas
Wayfinding and sign graphics
Cut or printed luminous graphics can be used for directional arrows, door identification and sign panels in corridors, public buildings and workspaces. The design should leave the important symbols easy to identify in low light.
Stair and edge identification
Converted strips can mark step edges, changes in level and selected boundaries. For areas exposed to foot traffic, specify suitable wear resistance and any required slip resistance; luminous film alone is not an anti-slip product.
Equipment and location labels
Numbers, arrows and labels can help identify selected handles, storage locations and equipment positions in low-light conditions. Choose the construction for the surface, cleaning routine and operating environment.
Decorative and display graphics
Die-cut stars, lettering and shapes can create glow effects on compatible interior surfaces. Printable PVC options can also be used for display graphics and decorative artwork after checking the printing process.
For emergency-exit or other regulated safety uses, specify the applicable project requirements and confirm the exact material, supporting test documentation and installation design. A glow-duration option alone does not demonstrate compliance.
Watch the roll-processing video
Frequently asked questions
What is the standard photoluminescent film roll size?
The standard format for this range is 1.24 m × 50 m. Custom slitting and cut sizes are available for the required finished format.
Can the film be cut into letters and custom shapes?
Yes. PET film options can be used for cut lettering and slit strips. Custom shapes and die-cut pieces can be discussed using your artwork and dimensions.
Which material should I choose for printed graphics?
PVC is the printing option in this range. Confirm compatibility with your printer and ink system, then check a printed sample before production.
Can I order a 10-hour glow option?
Yes. The available duration options are 4, 6, 8 and 10 hours. Confirm the selected grade and its test conditions; afterglow brightness decreases with time.
Build your photoluminescent film specification
Send Xingyuan your application, PET or PVC preference, required glow option, roll or finished-piece dimensions, artwork, quantity and delivery country. For printed orders, include the printer and ink details.
China Xingyuan Reflective Materials Co., Ltd.
Photoluminescent film, tape and custom converted materials.
Email: sales@reflecfilm.com
WhatsApp: +86 153 9632 5925
See a colored film option
For a specific product with color samples and production footage, view our 6-hour colored photoluminescent film. It is supplied at 0.38 mm thickness in 1.24 m × 50 m rolls, with custom sizes available. Compare both the daylight and glow colors before requesting a sample.