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CHICAGO, Aug. 25, 2026 — Some of the world’s brightest colors don’t just reflect light, they create it. Scientists and museum conservators are now uncovering why these luminous pigments fade and how to preserve them for future generations. The findings could help protect artwork while informing the development of longer-lasting phosphorescent materials for a variety of applications, from fashion runways to airport runways.
The researchers will present their results at the fall meeting of the American Chemical Society (ACS) during the “Chemistry Behind Art and Art Conservation” symposium in McCormick Place. ACS Fall 2026 is being held August 23-27.
“Artists have always been attracted to bright, emissive colors. They allow you to do exciting things that you just can’t do with a regular pigment on the artist palette.” — Gregory Smith
Most paints and dyes are seen because they bounce visible light back to our eyes. Fluorescent and glow-in-the-dark pigments are different: They absorb light and give it back as a vivid glow. This produces the attention-grabbing visual effects found in pop art, fashion, traffic signage, and the glowing stars that many people stick to their bedroom ceilings as children.
