A formulation for a high performance Photoluminescent powder coat and a process by which a substrate is covered with multiple layers to give both photoluminescent and other advantageous qualities to said substrate. The first layer applied to the substrate is a retroreflective layer to provide retroreflective action to the second photoluminescent layer. A variety of translucent layers can then be applied over the photoluminescent layer to give such properties as antibacterial or antimicrobial action, non-slip surface or durability, and special textures. The layers can also provide such advantageous qualities as temperature resistance and electroconductivity or electrodissipation. Although this process has a variety of applications, it gives specific advantage to all forms of door hardware, both providing illumination for low-light conditions and advanced qualities such as heat or flame resistance.