Lead Performer: MicroLink Devices, Inc. – Niles, IL
DOE Total Funding: $150,000
Project Term: February 21, 2017 – November 20, 2017
Funding Type: STTR

PROJECT OBJECTIVE

In this project, MicroLink Devices and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory will team to improve the performance of phosphide-based red and amber LEDs by engineering the composition and alloy combinations of these established semiconductor systems to overcome certain fundamental loss mechanisms that are known to limit performance. The approach builds on the team’s longstanding efforts using similar materials to advance high-efficiency multi-junction solar cell technologies. The main objective of the project is to improve the performance of red and amber LEDs by implementing an AlxN1-xP-based active region in combination with an advantageous electron cladding layer based on a higher bandgap II-VI semiconductor alloy.

PROJECT IMPACT

By demonstrating an innovative crosscutting technology to design and fabricate high-efficiency, phosphide-based LEDs for eventual use in high-performance multi-LED SSL devices, this design approach is expected to mitigate both internal and external loss mechanisms in a significant way, thereby increasing efficacy in a stable and cost-effective manner. This is anticipated to be the most significant improvement in the efficiency of red and amber LEDs in decades and will reduce market adoption risk by using existing device designs and manufacturing processes.

CONTACTS

DOE Technology Manager: James Brodrick, James.Brodrick@ee.doe.gov
Lead Performer: Christopher Stender, MicroLink Devices, Inc.