Researchers have successfully developed a light-emitting diodes from nanomaterials. A team of scientists from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) discovered the new nanomaterial application that can emit ultraviolet light.
The nanomaterial in question here is graphene, which is popular due to its electrical conductivity and strength. The material is popular in manufacturing electrical circuits and smartphones. However, this is the first time, its application in creating future LED has come to light.
According to Ph.D. candidate researcher, Ida Høiaas, the new electronic component shows tremendous potential. Due to wide availability of graphene and its eco-friendly nature, the product promise stable and robust growth for LED lighting solutions. Additionally, the material is more durable and stable as compared to fluorescent lamps. According to Ida, this is likely to boost the adoption of the next-gen lighting solutions.
UV light demonstrated in this research can open up new applications in destroying viruses and bacteria cells. This UV light with wavelengths of 100-280 nanometers can clean up hospital equipment and surfaces. Moreover, these show promise in purifying air and water sources as well.
Technology Pays its Tribute to the Dead
Furthermore, the new invention will help phase out mercury, a toxic substance used in lighting solutions. UN’s Minamata legislation went into effect in 2017. This legislations set out measures to drastically reduce mercury use and phase out mercury mining. The legislation acquired its name after a Japanese city, wherein mercury induced disease killed several people.
The new technology promises more energy efficient and cheaper diodes to replace fluorescent bulbs. The technology also promises to exclude aluminium nitride from the production of UV LEDs. professors Bjørn-Ove Fimland and Helge Weman from the electronics department of NTNU led the project.
The researchers and their parent organization plan on introducing the technology in the market by 2022.
