New lights on the horizon

[johnnywalker]

From the BBC:

A new type of super-efficient household light bulb is being developed which could spell the end of regular bulbs.

Experts have found a way to make Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) brighter and use less power than energy efficient light bulbs currently on the market.

The technology, used in gadgets such as mobile phones and computers, had previously not been powerful enough to be used for lighting.

But Glasgow University scientists said they had resolved the problem.

The project, being developed along with the Institute of Photonics at the University of Strathclyde, involves making microscopic holes in the surface of LEDs to increase the level of light they give off.

This is a process known as nano-imprint lithography.

Dr Faiz Rahman, who is leading the project, said: "As yet, LEDs have not been introduced as the standard lighting in homes because the process of making the holes is very time consuming and expensive.

"However, we believe we have found a way of imprinting the holes into billions of LEDs at a far greater speed, but at a much lower cost."

He added: "This means the days of the humble light-bulb could soon be over."

 

[Snapshot]

I have no problem replacing my incandescent bulbs with LED versions provided I get the same functionality. It remains, however, to be seen if that will be the case.

 

[JBrunner]

It would certainly be nice to jump to an energy efficient technology with a controllable spectrum.

 

[agGNOME]

This is all great, but it makes me worry about the future manufacture of certain types of enlarger bulbs.

 

[JBrunner]

This is all great, but it makes me worry about the future manufacture of certain types of enlarger bulbs.

Before this thread degenerates, you may want to visit my thread, now properly moldering in the soapbox. Its been done, overdone, actually.