Ceramic Phosphors for Light Conversion in LEDs

In the present article we briefly review some materials research aspects related to ceramic phosphors and discuss both typical characteristics as well as unique features of such optical converters. Devices with more efficiency and/or higher luminous flux that are based on converting the pump light crucially enable the use of LEDs in white and single color illumination schemes for many applications. Advantages of generating white light with ceramics versus powder-in-silicone are discussed. High performance of single color conversion LEDs in terms of efficacy and external quantum efficiency for the visible region boost the output in data or home cinema projection and automotive signaling but more applications are appearing. (C) 2012 The Electrochemical Society.