What Are the Chemicals in Glow Necklaces?

Chemical Composition

• Glow necklaces are typically filled with hydrogen peroxide and a mixture of phenyl oxalate ester and a fluorescent dye to give it a specific color. The hydrogen peroxide is contained in a small glass tube the floats in the mixture. To make the glow necklace glow, the user must break the glass vial by bending the plastic to release the hydrogen peroxide.

Chemical Reaction

• The chemical process that enables glow necklace to glow is called chemiluminesence. This process occurs when the hydrogen and the phenyl oxalate mix. Electrons in the chemicals become exited and jump energy levels. As they come back down, the electrons release energy in the form of light.

Duration

• How long the glow necklace stays lit depends on the composition and quality of the chemicals in the tube. You can prolong the process by slowing the chemical reaction by putting the glow necklace in the freezer. It won't be as bright but will continue to glow longer.

Heating

• Similar to cooling the glow necklace to slow the chemical process, users can do the reverse by heating it. Whilst cooling dulls the glow, heating will excite the chemicals and make the glow necklace brighter. However, the glow will fade more quickly as the reaction will use up the hydrogen peroxide more quickly.

Caution

• According to the National Capital Poison Center, the chemicals in glow necklaces are not toxic if ingested. However, the organization advises that if you do ingest a glow necklace's chemicals, you should rinse your mouth out well, drink a little milk and call poison control to ensure you are OK. Take note that although these are not considered deadly, different people may have some reactions to the chemicals so it is wise to err on the side of caution.