Semiconductor materials have enabled devices that assist us in a multitude of ways. During recent years, semiconductor materials have demonstrated yet another ability: The ability to generate white, pleasant light with very high efficiency. Light-Emitting Diodes (LEDs) can be 10 times more efficient than conventional light bulbs and 3 times more efficient than fluorescent lamps. As a consequence, we are entering a new era in lighting, in which LED-based lighting enables a cleaner and greener world. In this presentation, I will discuss the rich history, the formidable research challenges, the enormous impact, and the unprecedented opportunities offered by LED-based lighting. Particular emphasis will be placed on how innovative materials can contribute to the LED revolution. This includes innovation in phosphors, encapsulation materials, and light-extraction architectures.

Challenges in solid-state lighting associated with materials research

246th National Meeting (2013)

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