LEDs and Solid State Devices: Lifespan Explained

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SUMMARY

LEDs and other solid-state light-emitting devices have a defined lifespan due to temperature-induced changes, including dopant migration, merging of crystalline defects, and charging of insulating layers from ionizing radiation. Higher energy efficiency correlates with increased longevity; as LED efficacy approaches 300 Lumens/Watt, heat generation diminishes significantly, resulting in longer operational life. Current peak efficacies of laboratory devices are nearing 200 Lumens/Watt, indicating substantial potential for extended lifespan in practical applications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of solid-state physics
  • Knowledge of LED technology and efficacy measurements
  • Familiarity with thermal management in electronic devices
  • Basic principles of semiconductor materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the impact of temperature on semiconductor performance
  • Explore advancements in LED efficacy and materials
  • Learn about thermal management techniques for high-efficiency LEDs
  • Investigate the effects of ionizing radiation on solid-state devices
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, researchers, and product developers in the fields of lighting technology, semiconductor manufacturing, and thermal management who are focused on enhancing the lifespan and efficiency of LED devices.

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Why do LEDs and other light emitting solid state devices have a definite lifespan?
 
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Because at elevated temperatures they change. Dopants migrate, crystalline defects merge, insulating layers become charged (under the influence of ionizing radiation), contact metals diffuse on and into the semiconductor.
 
thank you very much. that would mean that higher energy efficiency of a device would mean not only more energy efficiency in and of itself, but higher total lifetime, correct?
 
Indeed. When the LED efficacy in Lumens/Watt starts to approach 300, the heat generation falls rapidly. All the energy is coming out as light. At that point you only have phosphor and encapsulant degradation due to high luminous flux. It will still degrade but the life could be measured in the many decades, not years, of continuous operation.

Peak efficacies of lab devices today are approaching 200 Lumens/Watt.
 

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