October 2014

Carbon nanotube lighting, better than LED?

Scientists working in Japan may have developed a light source more efficient than LED.

Tohuko University in Japan describe the fabrication of a device which is based on a phosphor screen and single-walled carbon nanotubes as electrodes in a diode structure. It has been suggested that the light emitting source can be thought of as a field of tungsten filaments shrunk to microscopic proportions.

Planar light source device through a neutral density filter. Photo credit: N.Shimoi, Tohoku University

The scientists assembled the device from a mixture liquid containing highly crystalline single-walled carbon nanotubes dispersed in an organic solvent mixed with surfactant – a soap-like chemical. Then, they painted this mixture onto the positive electrode or cathode, and scratched the surface with sandpaper to form a light panel capable of producing a large, stable and homogenous emission with low energy consumption.

It has been argued that the way the light source functions is more like a cathode ray tube than a diode. The carbon nanotubes are said to act like cathodes while a phosphor screen in a vacuum cavity acts as the anode.

Single-walled carbon nanotubes are said to have zero defects in the carbon network on the surface and extremely low resistance, meaning energy losses in the lighting device are extremely low.

Lead researcher and associate professor of environmental studies at Tohuko University, Norihiro Shimoi, told AIP Publishing that the ‘diode’ panel had a brightness efficiency of 60 lumens per watt meaning it held ‘excellent potential for a lighting device with low power consumption’. The light source was also found to be flicker free and to provide ‘good brightness homogeneity’ while the wet-coating process was said to be low cost.

Shimoi said: “Many researchers have attempted to construct light sources with carbon nanotubes as a field emitter. But nobody has developed an equivalent and simpler lighting device.”

www.fraserbesantlighting.co.uk

Silentnight Comfort Control Electric Blankets

Electric blankets are experiencing a resurgence in popularity as people discover they're a great way to counter rising fuel costs - after all, why heat an entire house at night when you can simply target the bed? This Silentnight comfort control electric blanket takes just 10 minutes to warm up, so you're ready for bed in the time it takes to brush your teeth and get your pyjamas on! The 3 heat settings let you find the temperature that's right for you on a particular evening. With 3 sizes to suit you bed size it will keep everyone warm even if someone else is hogging the duvet.

Buy now here:
http://www.electricsandlighting.co.uk/products/heater/silentnight-comfor...

Warm white LED marker step lights

We stock a great range of warm white inset LED lights, these can be used in steps, decking, bathrooms and kitchens. You can also buy a dimmable driver and these new LED marker lights can be dimmed. We have all the drivers and accesories online now. To discuss a design please call the sales team. http://www.electricsandlighting.co.uk/product-category/outdoor-lighting?f[0]=field_product_category%253Aparents_all%3A467&f[1]=field_product_category%253Aparents_all%3A477&f[2]=field_product%253Afield_brand%253Aparents_all%3A15

Is winter really coming? Stay warm with us.

As you can already tell its starting to get a bit nippy in the mornings, help is at hand tho as we offer a range of heaters from fan heaters to convectors theres bound to be on to take the chill off your day.

For example this Lloytron 2Kw Convector Heater F2402WH is perfect for the unpredictable weather with 3 Heat settings, 750w/1250w/2000w. A variable thermostat with frost protection. It also benifits from a safety overheat cut-out. it is free standing or wall mountable with Integral carry handles. Dimensions 66.5x48cmx20cm. and its only £25.99.

Dont fall short this year buy early as we may be looking at a very cold winter, so stay warm.