High Refractive Index Encapsulants Technology for LEDs

Today¿s solid-state lighting (SSL) products fall short of the key price and performance requirements needed to meet the complex demands of the general illumination market. Therefore, this project will develop novel encapsulants for LEDs that have the potential to improve light extraction efficiency by 30% over current technology. The approach will involve the synthesis of ionic liquids and solids with high electron densities, resulting in a refractive index in the range of 1.7 to 2, while meeting the other requirements of the LED industry. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee:The high-performance encapsulants currently in use cost about $1,300/kg. An encapsulant with an RI of 1.8 could be priced 3 times higher, as it will increase light output by 30%. A conservative estimate indicates that 25% of the market for the high brightness LEDs would be a potential target for this technology