LED light technology has again hit the spotlight but this time it is due to the wonder material, graphene. Consumers would soon be using graphene-based light bulbs. It is assumed that the dimmable bulb would help in reducing energy costs by ten percent and might come with a longer shelf life relatively. Although, it is expected that the cost might remain the same as is the conventional LED.
Graphene coated filament will be embedded in the innovative LED. The material is not only 9m times thinner than a human hair but a micro-thin layer of graphene is two hundred times stronger than steel.
Graphene-based light bulbs
Graphene Lighting, a Canadian firm that is also linked with Manchester University is developing the bulb. Professor Colin Bailey, VC at Manchester and a director of the company added that even though the product is using more sustainable components yet the developing costs are lesser with respect to any conventional lights.
Government has supported National Graphene Institute via the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council by investing £38m. Along with this, European Regional Development Fund has also added £23m to the research institute. Chancellor George Osborne envisions UK competing with China and South Korea in graphene technology.
Graphene to deliver cutting-edge performance
With an aim of developing other practical and commercial uses of graphene, over 35 companies across the world are collaborating with the university to develop projects. Some of the projects include creating car & aircraft frames and false teeth. Tennis rackets and skis are the two products in where the wonder material has already been incorporated so far.
Graphene is surely making headway and with its involvement in LED lighting, it would herald a new era of LED technology, not to miss its unlimited possibilities across other products. Talking about its current use in LED lighting, users would surely see cutting-edge performance and display in the coming years.
Source: BBC
