Aplicación de hormigón fotoluminiscente en el diseño de mobiliario urbano

Abstract

The present research was conducted with the objective of evaluating the technical, economic, and luminous feasibility of incorporating photoluminescent concrete into the design of urban furniture, with the purpose of enhancing pedestrian safety and the nighttime aesthetics of public spaces. The study focuses on the surface application method of the photoluminescent material known as strontium aluminate doped with europium and dysprosium, which has the ability to absorb light during the day and emit it in darkness without requiring electrical energy. Within the study, the properties of photoluminescent concrete are examined, and a series of tests and analyses are carried out to design a concrete mix proportion following the ACI 211.1 standard, ensuring compliance with strength and durability requirements. Subsequently, luminance and compressive strength tests were performed on cubic specimens, and a full-scale urban furniture prototype was fabricated to evaluate its photoluminescent behavior under controlled conditions. The results of the investigation demonstrate that the surface application of the photoluminescent material, under proper curing and application conditions, does not negatively affect the mechanical strength of the concrete and provides a visible luminous effect in total darkness. Furthermore, it is concluded that photoluminescent concrete represents an efficient, passive, and sustainable innovation for the built environment.