Neon signs are a symbol of Hong Kong, from blockbuster Hollywood movies to Wong Kar Wai movies. These signs were first introduced in the 1920s. They flourished in the later 20th century as a result of the city’s economic growth. As a way of advertising their business, neon lights were used by restaurants, nightclubs, and…
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George Claude’s air liquefaction process was another innovation that led the to the invention and use of the neon lamps. He invented a method that allows gasses to become liquid by cooling them then heating them. This allowed him produce large amounts pure neon. The noble gas was discovered in the 1970s and has unique…
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The theory behind neon sign technology is rooted in 1675, long before electricity was invented. Jean Picard*, a French astronomer, noticed a faint glow inside a mercury barometer tube. The tube became brighter when it was shaken. However, the reason for the glow (static electricity), was not known at the time. Although the causes of barometric lighting…
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