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6 DIY Materials for Solar Powered Night Illumination

Dec 2, 2011 11:42 PM

Giveaway Tuesdays has officially ended! But don't sweat it, WonderHowTo has another World that's taken its place. Every Tuesday, Phone Snap! invites you to show off your cell phone photography skills.

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Here at WonderHowTo, we can't get enough of Inventables. The innovator's hardware store is a dreamland for DIYers, full of wildly inventive materials and products. They were a natural choice for this week's Giveaway, and while we're only giving away one of the products listed below, we're inspired by all of Inventable's eco-friendly, solar powered illumination materials. The DIY possibilities are endless!

1. Powerless Illuminating Tubing

Colorful abstract light trails in blue and green.

If you've already participated in this week's Giveaway, read on. But for those who have yet to discover powerless illuminating tubing, it is a flexible, UV-resistant tubing that converts solar energy into nighttime illumination. Just 5 minutes of sunlight can yield 8 hours of nighttime glow! Enter our giveaway before Monday, May 30th, 11:59pm PST for a chance to win a 3 piece kit.

2. Illuminating Resins

Fluorescent green powder on a dark background.

The "rawest" material of the bunch, illuminating resin can be injected or molded into a variety of different products. Solar activation for just 5-30 minutes will result in a glow for over 8 hours. Currently used in running shoes, bike handles, helmets and ski boots.

3. Glow-in-the-Dark Glass

Mint green soap bars on a white background.

This light-charged glass emits a a blue/green light for more than an hour after 20 minutes of solar activation. If you don't mind a light you can't turn off, this material is an eco-friendly and electricity-saving solution for home building applications. But it sure ain't cheap—each brick goes for $227.00 a pop.

4. Photoluminescent PVC Sheets

Green color swatches on black background.

In flexible PVC sheet form, this photoluminescence material also glows for approximately 8 hours with very little solar activation. Cut it, build with it, attach it. Currently predominately used in safety situations, the application possibilities are vast.

5. Powerless Illuminating Strips

Abstract blue and green ribbon against a black background.

These durable polymer strips can function for up to 15 years, and can be added as trim to most fabrics. Currently used on backpacks, ski jackets, awnings, pet harnesses, and safety apparel. What would you use it for?

6. Glow-in-the-Dark Thread

Green and silver paint roller with a zigzag pattern.

Weave phosphorescence into your clothing or home accessories with this UV activated glow-in-the-dark thread. It can be washed and reused continually without damage to its ability to glow. Imagine a garment with "hidden messages" knitted in!

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