Merco M217 Glow Tape — photoluminescent marking tape
Merco’s M217 Safety Grade photoluminescent tape glows in total darkness after exposure to artificial or natural light. Three to ten seconds of light exposure is normally all it needs to recharge.
Visible marks in a blackout
M217 absorbs light from stage, work or natural lighting and glows when the lights go out — useful for general marking in dark backstage areas and blackouts.
- Glows in total darkness after light exposure
- Recharges from artificial or natural light
- Normally recharges in 3–10 seconds
- Tape format for quick marking
- General and light industrial grade
- Handy 4.57 m roll
Backstage, stage and workshop marking
Blackout marks
Mark positions, set-piece corners and entrances that need to be found in a blackout.
Backstage & wings
Mark step edges, handrails, cases and equipment in dark backstage areas.
General markings
Graphics, markings, equipment and safety kits in general and light industrial use.
What it is — and what it isn’t
Use it for
- General marking in dark backstage areas
- Blackout positions and set-piece corners
- Labelling equipment, cases and kits
- Light industrial and general-purpose marking
Don’t use it for
- Critical or regulated applications — ask us about longer-rated grades
- Replacing required emergency or exit lighting and signage
- Areas with no light source to charge it
- Dusty, damp or oily surfaces
Getting the best result
- Clean and dry the surface.
- Cut the length you need.
- Press the tape down firmly along its length.
- Expose to light before the blackout so it’s charged — normally 3–10 seconds.
- Test it in your actual lighting conditions before the show.
Key details
| Brand | Merco |
|---|---|
| Product | M217 Safety Grade Photoluminescent Tape |
| Product code | M217-5YD |
| Size | 24 mm × 4.57 m (1 in × 5 yd) |
| Charging | Artificial or natural light — normally 3–10 seconds |
| Grade | General and light industrial use; not for critical end use |
Common questions
How long does it take to charge glow tape?
Merco says three to ten seconds of light exposure is normally all M217 needs to recharge.
Can I use M217 for emergency exit marking?
M217 is a general-purpose grade, not for critical end use. Longer-rated products are available on enquiry — contact us with your requirements.
Is it used in theatre?
Yes, glow tape is commonly used backstage to mark positions, step edges and equipment so crew and cast can find them in a blackout. Test it under your lighting first.
Are other sizes available?
Other widths, lengths and grades may be available on application. Email us with what you need.
Glow brightness and duration depend on the light source, charge time and conditions. Test in your actual lighting conditions before relying on it. Information is from Merco product data and is a guide only.
Related products
Need a longer-rated grade or a different size?
Tell us how and where you’re using it and we’ll check what Merco can supply.
