Abstract: Processes of detecting the presence of an environmental challenge such as contact with an acidic/acid-forming and/or oxidizable gas are provided whereby a metal oxyhydroxide is used as a detection agent. The metal oxyhydroxide will irreversibly interact with an acidic/acid-forming and/or oxidizable gas causing a red-stretch of the emission spectra. This red-stretch alters the ratio of emission intensities at higher wavelengths relative to lower wavelengths. A reduced post-exposure photoluminescence ratio is, therefore, used to detect exposure to such a gas or environmental challenge. The materials and processes may be used as a residual life indicator for filtration systems or for the detection of environmental challenges.