What is Neon used for?
Neon is a term that is now commonly used to refer to a sign with a certain type of effect – that of continuous illumination. A real neon sign consists of glass filled with neon gas, but neon signs also refer to LED replica neon signs. But what else is neon gas used for? Read on to find out!
Neon is an odourless, colourless inert gas in Group 18 of the periodic table. It has the symbol Ne and the atomic number 10.
1. Neon Signs and Advertising
The most well-known use of neon is in neon signs. When an electric current passes through neon gas inside a sealed tube, it emits a vibrant reddish-orange glow. Other colors can be produced by mixing neon with other gases or using different phosphor coatings inside the tube. These signs have been a staple of nightlife, storefronts, and advertisements since the early 20th century, adding a nostalgic and artistic element to urban landscapes.
2. High-Voltage Indicators and Displays
Neon’s ability to conduct electricity and glow brightly makes it ideal for high-voltage indicators, pilot lights, and display panels. You’ve probably seen tiny neon indicator lights on older electrical equipment and appliances, where they signal power status with a steady glow.
3. Television Tubes and Lasers
Neon is used in some gas lasers, such as helium-neon (He-Ne) lasers, which produce a bright red beam. These lasers are often used in scientific research, barcode scanners, and even laser pointers. Additionally, early television tubes used neon gas in their design before modern LCD and LED screens took over.
How Does a Helium-Neon Laser Work?
The laser tube is filled with a mixture of helium (He) and neon (Ne) gases (usually about 85% helium and 15% neon). An electrical discharge excites the helium atoms, which then transfer energy to the neon atoms. This energy boost allows neon atoms to emit a coherent red light at 632.8 nm (wavelength).
Where Are He-Ne Lasers Used?
- Barcode scanners (supermarkets, libraries)
- Laser pointers (though most modern ones use diodes)
- Holography (creating 3D holograms)
- Scientific research (optics, physics experiments)
- Alignment tools (in precision manufacturing)
Even though newer laser technologies (like diode lasers) have taken over in some areas, helium-neon lasers remain reliable, cost-effective, and stable, making them a staple in laboratories and industry.
5. Cryogenics and Cooling Applications
Liquid neon is an efficient cryogenic refrigerant, meaning it’s used to cool things down to extremely low temperatures. It has 40 times the cooling capacity of liquid helium and is used in superconductors, particle accelerators, and other advanced scientific equipment that requires extreme cooling.
Why Neon?
Extremely Low Boiling Point: Liquid neon has a boiling point of -246°C (-411°F), making it ideal for ultra-cold environments.
High Refrigeration Capacity: Neon has 40 times the cooling capacity of liquid helium and three times that of liquid hydrogen, making it an efficient cooling agent.
Non-Toxic & Inert: Unlike some other refrigerants, neon doesn’t react with materials, making it safe for sensitive applications.
Where Is Liquid Neon Used for Cooling?
- Superconductor Cooling – Used to cool superconducting magnets in MRI machines, particle accelerators, and quantum computing.
- Aerospace and Spacecraft Systems – Helps maintain ultra-low temperatures in infrared sensors and space instruments.
- Cryogenic Research – Used in laboratories and scientific experiments that require extreme cooling.
While helium is still more commonly used, neon is a valuable alternative where high cooling efficiency is needed.
6. Aerospace Applications
Neon is sometimes used in aerospace applications, especially in instruments that need to function under extreme conditions, due to its low boiling point, stability, and inert nature. It’s also found in specialised lightning arresters, which help protect buildings and power lines from electrical surges.
Cryogenic Cooling in Spacecraft – Liquid neon is used to cool infrared sensors and scientific instruments on satellites and spacecraft. It provides better cooling than liquid helium in some cases, particularly for long-duration space missions.
Inert Atmosphere for High-Tech Equipment – Some aerospace components require an oxygen-free environment to prevent oxidation or contamination. Neon is used as a protective gas in certain manufacturing and operational processes.
Plasma Displays & Navigation Systems – Neon gas has been used in specialised avionics displays and plasma screen technologies in aerospace control panels.
7. Lightning Protection
Neon plays a role in lightning arresters, which help protect buildings, electrical grids, and equipment from power surges caused by lightning strikes.
Gas Discharge Tubes (GDTs) – Neon gas is used in small gas-filled tubes inside surge protectors and lightning arresters. When a high voltage surge (like from a lightning strike) occurs, the gas ionises and conducts electricity, safely directing the surge away from sensitive electronics.
Aircraft Lightning Protection – Some older aircraft systems used neon-based discharge tubes to safely dissipate electrical buildup, reducing the risk of lightning damage.
8. Medical Imaging and Research
Neon isotopes have been used in medical imaging and research, though not as commonly as other noble gases like xenon or helium. In some cases, neon gas is used in tracer studies and respiratory treatments.
a. Neon Isotopes in Medical Research
- Neon-22 and Neon-21 (stable isotopes of neon) are used in tracer studies to analyse metabolic processes and fluid dynamics in biological systems.
- These isotopes help researchers understand how gases move through the human body and how they interact with different tissues.
b. Cryogenic Cooling for MRI Machines
- Liquid neon is used in cryogenic cooling systems for superconducting magnets in MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) machines.
- Though liquid helium is more commonly used, neon is a strong alternative because it provides higher refrigeration capacity and is less expensive to replenish.
c. Biomedical and Plasma Research
- Neon plasma studies help researchers understand cellular interactions and biophysical processes, which can lead to advancements in medical treatments.
- It’s also used in some laser applications related to medical diagnostics and treatment research.
9. Scientific Experiments and Particle Physics
Because neon is chemically inert, it is often used in scientific experiments and research. It plays a role in particle detectors, helping scientists study subatomic particles and cosmic radiation.
Neon gas might be best known for its glowing signs, but its uses extend far beyond the world of advertisements. From scientific research to aerospace and cooling applications, neon is an incredibly versatile element. While modern LED technology has replaced neon in some areas, its unique properties ensure that this noble gas will continue to play a role in various industries for years to come.
Want a neon sign for your business or just fascinated by glowing gases? Either way, neon isn’t just for show—it’s science in action!
