Tech Note: Guide To Fluorescence And Color

This technical note is intended to present an overview of the general principles associated with measuring fluorescent color. It will address the chemistry and physics of what causes fluorescent pigments to work and give a few examples of applications for the pigments. We'll also consider why standard spectrophotometers and colorimeters fail to give completely accurate results in measuring such materials. After an overview of the effects of different illuminants on fluorescent pigments, we'll discuss how geometry of measurement can affect results, and how several national laboratories are making such measurements. Finally, we'll take a look at one industrial solution that provides accurate bispectral measurements of fluorescent colored materials.