Abstract: A decorative composite article which may be longitudinally slit to form a yarn product is disclosed which has a combined a phosphorescent and fluorescent decorative appearance. The composite article includes paired outer layers of a thermoplastic resin between which is disposed a decorative layer comprising a composition including a colorant component having a phosphorescent colorant and a fluorescent colorant, and a resin binder material. The fluorescent colorant is present in an amount by weight that is up to an amount equal to that of the phosphorescent colorant. The present binder material may be selected from polyester, polyurethane and acrylic polymers and copolymers, with a mixture of a butadiene-acrylonitrile rubber and polyurethane composition being preferred.

Abstract: A decorative composite article which may be longitudinally slit to form a yarn product is disclosed which has a combined a phosphorescent and retroreflective decorative appearance. The composite article includes a phosphorescent film component prepared from a thermoplastic resin base having a phosphorescent colorant disposed on the outer directed surface. The phosphorescent film component is laminated to a retroreflective film component comprising a thermoplastic resin base containing a quantity of reflective glass beads or lenses bonded thereto. The retroreflective film component bears a layer of an adhesive composition on its free surface, which is oriented during lamination to enter adhesive engagement with the uncoated surface of the phosphorescent film component.The composite article prepared in accordance with the present invention offers improved flexural strength in combination with a unique decorative appearance that combines the benefits of phosphorescent activity with direct reflective capability.