Statement of the problem or situation that is being addressed - typically, one to three sentences. Solid state lighting (SSL) is a fast growing technology, which is starting to replace conventional lighting products such as fluorescent and incandescent bulbs. While the current efficiency of some commercial SSL products has surpassed those of most traditional lighting, it is still far below what the technology is theoretically capable of. The main reasons are attributed to poor light extraction and limited white spectral tunability that inhibit reaching the maximum luminous efficacy of radiation (LER). General statement of how this problem is being addressed. This is the overall objective of the combined Phase I and Phase II projects - typically, one to two sentences. We propose a new approach for maximizing the luminous efficacy of a phosphor down-converting LED system using a combination of (1) new high quantum yield (QY) red phosphor development, (2) surface plasmon resonance (SPR), and (3) enhanced light extraction efficiency using phosphor film technology. It is believed that this combinatorial approach to material development and phosphor structure optimization is the key to achieving solid state lighting with high luminous efficacies and spectral efficiency performance approaching the maximum luminous efficacy of radiation (LER), and with significantly reduced dependence on rare-earth compounds. What is planned for the Phase I project (typically, two to three sentences). Phase I will focus on demonstrating the feasibility of plasmonic-enhanced phosphor films applied to blue LEDs. This will be achieved by synthesizing various nano-metals that are known to exhibit surface plasmon resonance effects. Those metal nanostructures will be applied directly to phosphor particles using a thin layer of silica shell that can act as a spacer layer. The resulting structure will then be compared to the un-modified phosphor film in order to demonstrate >30% improved light extraction. COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS AND OTHER BENEFITS as described by the applicant. (Limit to space provided). The proposed materials and structures have applicability not just in solid state lighting, but potentially in all existing lamp products including incandescent, tungsten-halogen, and all types of fluorescents lamps. Thus, any current application in indoor/outdoor lighting, or backlighting in portable electronics will immediately benefit from the increased energy savings. Additionally this technology can significantly enhance the performance of solar cell technologies by enhancing absorption of the solar spectrum by the solar cell. SUMMARY FOR MEMBERS OF CONGRESS: (LAYMAN'S TERMS, TWO SENTENCES MAX.) Plasmonic nanostructures will initiate new paradigms in the conservation and generation of energy. Higher efficiency lamps and solar cell technologies will be produced that will revolutionize the US lighting and solar power industries, by providing competitive technologies that will significantly reduce global energy use and environmental pollution.
