Pro-Teq Surfacing has developed and patented Starpath – a new type of surface that glows in the dark.
The aggregate material absorbs and stores energy from ambient light (UV rays) during the day, then releases this energy at night allowing the particles to glow.
Comprising a multitude of product samples, mix ratios and application techniques, Starpath is currently being trialled in Christ’s Pieces, a park in the east side of the centre of Cambridge by Cambridge City Council.
According to the company, the product is cost effective to both install and maintain while its seamless surface may be applied to any existing surface, be it concrete, tarmac, timber or any hard stand substrate (solid base).
Pro-Teq Surfacing believes Starpath has considerable environmental appeal beyond the obvious reduction in council bills.
Hamish Scott, Owner of Pro-Teq Surfacing, said: “There is nothing like Starpath in the world, this product adjusts to the natural light, so if it is pitch black outside the luminous natural earth enhances, and if the sky is lighter, it won’t release as much luminosity – it adjusts accordingly, its almost like it has a mind of its own. We use natural earth products and it cannot be replicated by any other source; you need to physically see it to believe it, this is pure nature doing its work”.
This product has recently been sprayed onto the existing pathway that runs through Christ’s Pieces open space, Cambridge between the city centre and the Grafton Centre, and is used by pedestrians and cyclists during the day and night.
The Cambridge pathway measures 150 square metres, took only 30 minutes to spray the material on, and the surface was ready for use less than four hours after the job commenced. This short installation time allowed minimal disruption to the public.
Scott believes Starpath is more cost effective for councils. He added: “Councils spend significant sums of money fully replacing existing pathways when the existing surfaces have reached the end of their practical life. Our product is cost effective, fast to apply and fast to set, is an anti-slip surface, while the client has a choice of size and colour of aggregate. Once the aggregate is laid we apply a finishing coat, which is specially formulated to ensure the surface is water-resistant, and provides longevity to the finished product. Further, the surface is environmentally-friendly and aesthetically pleasing.”
