System efficiency of laser-based white light

Abstract

For many lighting applications, light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are replacing traditional light sources providing the possibility for smart and efficient systems as well as a reduction in the product weight. A next step in this development is the integration of laser-based light sources to increase luminance and to further scale down the optics possibly leading to a reduction of necessary resources. This article reviews the possibilities and challenges arising from the use of laser diodes especially compared to current high-power LED systems in terms of efficiency, color-rendering properties, and thermal management.

Phosphor-Converted Laser-Based Illuminant With High Color Rendering Index and Low Blue Light Hazard

“…The highest efficiency of LEDs tends to appear at a current density of ~0.01 kA/cm 2 due to the inevitable "efficiency droop". In contrast with LEDs, laser diodes (LDs) can maintain high efficiency at high current densities >10 kA/cm 2 because of stimulated radiation [4][5][6]. LD-driven white lighting has great potential in high luminance lighting, such as projector technology, automobile headlights and medical endoscopy [7][8][9].…”