Selective Emitter Based Energy Efficient Incandescent Lamp Technology

Artificial lighting consumes 20 percent of US energy production. Of this amount, incandescent lamps consume the most energy, 42 percent, while generating only 12 percent of lumens. Thus, development of energy efficient versions of incandescent lamps is of great interest. This project will develop robust emitter components and test lamps, leading to the production of incandescent lamps with 400-700 nm spectral emission, low-power high-output heating elements, and suitable electrical connections. Phase I will demonstrate innovative, selective emitter technology and prove the feasibility of producing a high efficiency incandescent lamp. Lamps will be characterized for lumens/watt, power consumption, wall temperature, and life expectancy. Phase II will optimize materials and processes, and demonstrate repeatability in emitter and lamp performance and cost effectiveness. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: The technology should lead to a lamp that retains the operational benefits, look, and cost of an incandescent lamp while boosting energy efficiency by a factor of three. Preliminary analysis projects a dramatic energy savings and emissions reduction potential.