PNNL TECHNOLOGY: Solid-state lighting
Solid-state lighting using organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) involves direct light emission from an organic semiconductor material applied as a thin film. Compared to an incandescent lamp, which turns most of the input power into heat, an OLED could potentially generate equivalent light using 90 percent less energy. PNNL is designing molecular structures that will lead to stable OLEDs at reduced costs. In related work, PNNL developed Barix™ barrier film technology, an ultrathin hermetic coating that can protect OLEDs, as well as displays and solar cells, from damage caused by atmospheric exposure. More info... http://eere.pnl.gov/building-technologies/ssl.stm.
Science Foundation
Some of the key challenges in improving building energy efficiency involve advances in materials science. PNNL's applied science research serves as the foundation for breakthroughs in lighting, distributed energy production and other important building systems. For example:
- Working at the molecular level to improve efficiency and reduce costs, PNNL scientists are paving the way for the introduction of organic light-emitting diodes for solid-state lighting and other applications.
- PNNL's extensive knowledge base in materials synthesis, testing, design optimization, fuel processing and catalysis is supporting the development of solid oxide fuel cells, which can be used in distributed energy applications.
- PNNL is a leader in the development of Micro Chemical and Thermal Systems (MICRO-CATSTM) for a variety of applications. Microsystems offer efficiency advantages in heating, cooling and power-generation applications.
PNNL's materials science capabilities have been applied to developing lightweight materials, bio-products, optical materials and coatings that can be used to create a wide range of innovative building technologies and components, including new construction materials and systems, fenestration and other building envelope technologies.