ChemLight® by Cyalume® — 12-hour Chemical Light Stick — Waterproof, Non-Flammable

ChemLight^® by Cyalume^® — 12-hour chemical light stick. Waterproof, non-toxic and non-flammable — a low-profile, maintenance-free illumination solution for tactical marking, search & rescue, diving and emergency use.

Overview

Compact, single-use chemical light sticks provide immediate, battery-free illumination when activated. ChemLight^® sticks are lightweight, individually sealed and simple to use — bend to activate, then shake to start the luminescent reaction. Once activated they emit steady light for up to 12 hours, making them ideal for prolonged operations or extended emergency scenarios.

How it works

The glow stick contains two separated chemical components. Bending the stick breaks the internal ampoule, allowing the reagents to mix and produce a chemiluminescent reaction. The result is visible light without heat, flame or electrical power — safe for use in fuel-sensitive or confined environments.

Key features

• Duration: up to 12 hours of continuous light (manufacturer rating)
• Waterproof: sealed construction suitable for wet conditions and submersion
• Non-flammable & non-heat producing: safe for use near flammable materials
• Non-toxic composition: no release of hazardous gases during normal use (see safety data sheet)
• Individually sealed: foil-wrapped for long shelf life and protection from moisture and sunlight
• Simple activation: bend to break the inner ampoule and shake to start the reaction
• Robust housing: durable plastic body with a hook for secure attachment (rope, cord, harness or kit)
• Hexagonal profile: reduces rolling and improves retention when laid on flat surfaces
• Floats: buoyant design for water marking and marine use

Applications

Used worldwide for tactical marking, night operations, vehicle and equipment marking, emergency illumination, underwater signaling, field medic marking, and outdoor recreation (camping, caving, climbing). ChemLight^® sticks are suitable for military, law enforcement, SAR teams and civilian users.

Storage, shelf life & labelling

Each stick is individually wrapped to protect the light from moisture and sunlight. Unused, sealed sticks typically retain full performance for multiple years when stored under recommended conditions (cool, dry, out of direct sunlight). Manufacturers commonly specify a shelf life — verify the printed expiry date / lot code on each package. Handle and store according to the supplied safety data sheet.

Safety & compliance

ChemLight^® sticks produce light through a chemiluminescent reaction and do not generate heat or flame. They are commonly marketed as non-toxic and non-flammable; nevertheless consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for details on composition, first aid, and disposal. For operations in explosive atmospheres, check the product’s ATEX/IECEx certification status before deployment.

Typical product kit contents

• Individually wrapped ChemLight^® sticks (single use)
• Printed lot code and manufacture/expiry date on wrapper (verify per batch)
• Attachment hook or hole for cord / lanyard

Key benefits

• Immediate, reliable light without batteries or power
• Waterproof and buoyant — suitable for marine and diving use
• Safe for fuel-sensitive and enclosed environments (no flame/hot surface)
• Long duration (up to 12 hours) for extended operations
• Lightweight, compact and easy to store or carry

Notes & recommended verifications

Before publishing product claims, please verify the following with the manufacturer or supplier:

• Exact certifications and standards complied with (e.g., ATEX / IECEx, REACH registration, NATO or DLA listings) — only list specific certifications after confirmation.
• Whether each stick is individually marked with an NSN (NATO Stock Number) — this is batch-sensitive and must be confirmed per product lot.
• Declared shelf life / expiry and recommended storage conditions for the specific production batch.
• Manufacturer’s SDS wording on toxicity, disposal and environmental handling — include a link to the SDS on the product page.
• Exact rated duration (12 hours is typical for many Cyalume® sticks but confirm measured output and temperature dependence with the supplier).