Phosphorus glows under certain light conditions. It is a process called photoluminescence. Electrons absorb energy when they come in contact with photons and release energy as light. Blacklights cause the phosphors in paint to glow. Appraisers and antique dealers often shine black lights on a piece of furniture to verify if it is authentic. More modern paints contain phosphors, so if the object glows with a green, purple or orange tinge it may not be as old as it appears.
Fluorescent materials absorb invisible ultraviolet light and shine it back. Fluorescent paint reacts under white light, which is why it has the neon effect. It has a particular hue when exposed to black light as well. White, orange and pink fluorescent paints colors are doubly dramatic under black lights. If you are seeking a " black light glow" using fluorescent paint, be prepared to live with the brightness even when the light is off. Use this paint for woodwork, a window trim or accent pieces, rather than on the walls, if you want a more conservative look.
Paint makers produce black light paint specifically to use with black lights. It is a clear product with a mucus-like consistency. It has no color under natural light but when exposed to ultraviolet light it provides a brilliant enhancement to every surface upon which it is painted. These paints come in a palette of intense colors which nobody will ever see unless the black lights are on. These paints can be applied as a compromise for a teen's bedroom or recreational area. Nobody will every know the paint is there until party time.
Curtisium paint glows intensely under black lights. It uses a process called curtisium, which is a mixture of photo luminous material and polymers that store energy from sunlight and other light sources. In the darkness they release energy making the paint glow in the dark. Black lights intensify the effect of paint treated with curtisium. After about eight hours the energy is depleted and the effect diminished, until more energy is stored from other light sources.