Why Did My Bed Sheet Glow Green When Touched?

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SUMMARY

The luminous bed sheet phenomenon described in the forum is attributed to triboluminescence, a process where light is emitted when certain materials are mechanically stimulated. The user experienced intense green light when touching a "plasticy" bed sheet, which suggests the fabric may contain specific compounds that react under friction. The light emission was localized to the top side of the sheet and did not produce any accompanying sounds, indicating a non-static source of illumination. This suggests that the fabric may be intentionally designed to exhibit such properties, although further investigation with the manufacturer is recommended.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of triboluminescence and its mechanisms
  • Familiarity with materials science, particularly regarding fabric compositions
  • Knowledge of static electricity and its effects on materials
  • Basic principles of light emission in materials
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  • Research triboluminescence in various materials and its applications
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  • Explore case studies of similar phenomena in textiles and their intended uses
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This discussion is beneficial for materials scientists, textile engineers, and anyone interested in the properties of fabrics and their interactions with physical stimuli.

Ngineer
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Very weird luminous bed sheet ??

I spent the night at another place yesterday. At night, the bed sheet (which was a bit "plasticy") would shine intense greenish light when I run my hands over it.

The light sometimes converges to a specific point, as if there was an LED placed underneath. if I rub the same spot again, it won't luminate as much. The light was powerful and the whole experience was weird.

What made it even more strange is that this only works on the top side of the bed, i.e. under my shirt, not my pants!

Is this intended by the fabric manufacturer? If so, what is this type of fabric called?

I can attach a video if needed.

Thanks!
 
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Cool! Yes, please show a clip, I'd like to see it!

Did you hear any sound, like weak, hi-pitched "popping" sounds? Because my first thought was it seems like an static electricity phenomenon, since I have experienced similar things in darkness when I've touched certain objects (but I don't remember exactly what it was, it might have been me combing my cat or something :smile:).
 
"Luminous bed sheet"? Are you sure it wasn't a ghost?
 
DennisN - I didn't hear any sounds when the light was emitted, and the light doesn't act like a spark (which makes me think it could be intended by the manufacturer)

HallsofIvy - Could be, only problem is I don't believe they exist!

Anyway, I hope this happens again today so I can have it on camera.
 
Does the owner of the bed not know what's happening ?
 
Actually it's a furnished place that I rented, haven't met the landlord since to discuss this with him
 
Interesting to read this, I also happened to me when I was in a rented place at Lake Tahoe. I got curious so searched and got here
 

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