Grant: Idea to Innovation

Consumers and industry are seeking safe, durable, energy efficient alternatives to traditional incandescent light bulbs. Although compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are comparatively energy efficient, they contain mercury, a toxic element that requires special handling for disposal and in the case of bulb breakage. Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are a safer, even more efficient and longer lasting alternative to CFLs. However, manufacturing white light emitting devices is a rather complicated and expensive procedure. The generation of white light appearance is currently based on combining LEDs emitting different colours or using a mixture of different phosphors (often containing expensive rare-earth elements). We designed and prepared a low-cost hybrid nanomaterial which illuminates pure white light and can be processed into light emitting structures and devices from liquid (i.e. solution) or solid (i.e. powder) forms. The material is constructed by low-cost solution method from colloidal gallium oxide nanocrystals having controlled sizes and selected organic molecules having complementary luminescence colour. The obtained hybrid material acts as a single illumination entity (chromophore), rather than a mixture, and provides a homogeneous and uniform white light emission. Because of its versatility and chemical compatibility this material can be used in various configurations and devices, from light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and displays to luminescent liquids and polymer/plastic panels. In this proposal we seek to fabricate prototype white LEDs using two different approaches, based on the demonstrated technology. In parallel with the development of these products we will refine the material based on its electronic structure to further reduce the cost and increase efficiency. A part of this grant will be used for preparing demonstrations for companies and venture capital firms. Commercialization of this technology will help promote Canada as a leader in energy-efficient technologies and provide the training and employment opportunities for highly qualified personnel.