Scientists Develop A Solar-Powered, Glow In The Dark Cement That Could Illuminate Roads At Night

A team of researchers has invented new light-emitting cement that could light up the expressways, roads and bicycle lanes during evening time without the use of power.

Nature Word News reports that the discovery was led by Jose Carlos Rubio, a researcher from Michoacán's University of San Nicolas Hidalgo (UMSNH) in Mexico and another team of scholars. Mr. Rubio developed cement that produces light without the use of batteries or solar cell. This can last for 100 years.

Talk about lighting your way! https://t.co/GRLlMlcSBX

— Jim Holz (@Jim_Holz) May 13, 2016

He shared that he worked on the inventions for nine years. The challenge that he faced then was the cement's opaque material that inhibits the light to pass through its interior, according to Tech Times.

He then altered the cement's microstructure to remove the crystals. He is able to arise with a translucent gel that attracts solar energy and illuminates when it is dark.

The researchers said those roads, highways and any structure that will be made of this particular cement can absorb solar power the whole day and emit light at night for 12 hours. They further explained that the cement is environmentally safe because it is made from dust, clay or sand and the only residue of its production is water vapor.

The cement produces only blue or green color. On the other hand, its light intensity could be adjusted differing on where the material will be applied or used. Rubio also said that light emitted by the cement is not solely dependent on direct sunlight. This is because it can be recharged even during gloomy days.

Rubio added that due to this patent, others have surfaced worldwide. He further cited that in the UK, they received recognition from Newton fund, given by the Royal Engineering Academy of London, which chooses global success cases in entrepreneurship and technology.