How to Use Black Lights
Introduction
The term “black lights” may at first seem to be a contradiction. In fact, black light refers to ultraviolet or infrared radiation that the human eye cannot see. It causes fluorescent materials to give off visible light, and is utilized to take photographs in the dark. You have probably seen black lights used in science museums, Halloween displays and at amusement parks.
Required Materials
Antiques
Paper money
Machinery
Required Tools
Black light
Fluorescent security pen
Instructions
Fun with Phosphors
Phosphors allow black lights to make invisible radiation visible. Phosphors are contained in teeth, fingernails, some paints, fabrics, plastics, and TV screens. In addition, phosphors are present in all glow-in-the-dark merchandise and in products such as highlighters, black light hair gel, and black light carpet.
Fluorescent Security Pens
The fluorescent security pen is mightier than the thief’s eye.You can mark your most valuable possessions with the pen. If a thief then steals these items, the fluorescent markings will not be visible. A black light can then make the writing magically reappear. The owner of the items and law enforcement officials can then determine who the items were stolen from.
Counterfeit Money
black lightsHow much U.S. money is counterfeit? According to estimates by the U.S. government, less than 1/1000 of one percent of all circulated paper currency, is fake. While U.S. paper money is difficult to copy, it is easy to validate as genuine. Black light is one tool to test paper money’s authenticity. Hold the money in front of a black light. If the money is real, then the bill’s security strip will glimmer. The $5 bill shines blue and the $10 bill shines orange. Next, the $20 bill shines green, and the $50 bill shines yellow. Lastly, the $100 bill shines red.
Antiques and Collectibles
Sometimes the naked eye cannot detect an antique’s age or need for repair. In this case, long wave black lights can be used. Furthermore, various products from the early 20th century are constructed of cast iron products. Black lights can determine if these products contain painted repairs or have been reproduced. Additionally, reproduction glass will glow when exposed to black light. Paper products such as photos, postcards, signs and books created prior to the late 1930s, typically do not glow beneath a black light. This can help to determine the age of various paper collectibles. Also, black lights can help to reveal touch-ups and repairs on paintings. Next, black lights cause many of today’s textiles to glow. This can help to date items such as rag dolls, stuffed animals, classic clothing and quilts. In addition, ultraviolet light can show touch-ups, repaints, and enhancements on porcelain.
Machine Leaks
Leaks and cracks in appliances and machines can be detected by utilizing fluorescent dye. Shining a black light on the dye will reveal the source of the problem.
Crime Scene
Black lights can be used to investigate filthy environments and criminal activity. The black light reveals stains and bodily fluids. They can be detected on furniture such as pillows and sofas, and on objects at crime scenes. Blood spatters on a wall can be detected even under a fresh, thick coat of paint.