A glow stick serves as an alternative source of illumination. There are many ways that you can use it. You can use it for parties, diving, fundraising, general emergencies, weddings, and so on. Whatever the purpose may be, it is obvious that we ask the manufacturer for the durability of glow sticks. However, that depends on various factors such as quality, storage, size, age, and color of the glow sticks.
The size and quality of the glow sticks affects durability of the glow of glow sticks. A good quality chemical present in large amounts make the stick glow brighter for a longer time. Therefore a good quality 6” glow stick lasts for about 12 hours and a 1.5” mini glow stick lasts for four to six hours.
The heat and cold elements of the environment are the other factors that vary their durability. When a glow stick is placed in a freezer, the chemical reaction is stopped. However, it is stopped partially so that it can last for longer time. When it is taken out of the freezer and kept under hot water, it starts glowing again. Heat speeds up the chemical reaction of the glow sticks and make it glow brighter for shorter period of time. For instance, a glow necklace lasts for 10 to 12 hours when put down at some place. However, when you wear it, the body heat is sufficient to enhance its activity. So it glows much brighter and lasts for three to four hours.
Furthermore, an older glow stick glows with dim light for shorter time. The brightness and glow time also gets affected by the color of the glow stick. Green and yellow colored lights are brighter and last for longer time. Hence, they are mostly used for safety and emergency purposes.
Different types of glow products have different ranges of durability. High quality and large sized sticks are used for glow lights pertained for emergencies. They are much effective and may last for about 30 minutes after activation. However, glow necklaces, bracelets, toys, and others which are used for parties glow for a few hours. The shelf life of glow sticks depends on the mode of packaging and storage conditions. They should be kept in a cool and dry place. The shelf life of glow sticks may vary from one to two years based on their storage.