Study on the Durability and Luminescent Properties of Self-Luminous Cement-Based Composite Material

Self-luminous cement-based composite materials (SLCCMs) can absorb and store incident energy and gradually release it in the dark, providing an energy-efficient solution for improving nighttime visibility. Despite their potential, the durability of SLCCMs under long-term corrosive service environments remains insufficiently investigated. This study investigates the effects of luminous sand (LS, 0%–50% by cement mass) and reflective powder (RP, 0%–20% by cement mass) on the durability and optical response of cementitious composite specimens under water immersion, freeze-thaw cycling, and sulfate exposure. Mass change, compressive strength, flexural strength, initial luminance, afterglow duration, and FT-IR spectra are analyzed. The results show that luminescent degradation occurred mainly during the early exposure stage; after water and sulfate immersion, the initial luminance decreased markedly, and the afterglow duration dropped by 5.89%–9.18%. Freeze-thaw cycling caused the most pronounced luminance loss during the first 25 cycles, with brightness reductions of 43.38%–53.11%. Within the tested mixture range, the specimen containing 40% LS shows the best balance between mechanical durability and luminescent performance. When the LS content is fixed at 50%, 10% RP provides the most favorable resistance to strength loss and luminance attenuation. The FT-IR results suggest chemical changes associated with LS hydrolysis and matrix deterioration, while the improved performance of RP-modified specimens likely relates to its optical reflection and possible filler effects. These research findings are intended to provide references for the practical application of energy-storage and slow-release self-luminous cement-based materials in the future.