Optical efficiency characterization of LED phosphors using a double integrating sphere system

Abstract

We report on the methodology and implementation of a robust and accurate double integrating sphere system for measuring the absolute photoluminescence quantum yield and its temperature dependence of commercially available phosphors (garnets, silicates and nitrides). The potential of our instrument for the examination of light interaction with samples of different absorption and diffusion coefficients is also presented, as optical properties of luminescent materials have a major impact on the efficiency of LED’s packaging. Our work gives special attention to the control and the optimization of light losses in the optical system in order to ensure reliable measurements. The YAG:Ce phosphor shows the highest luminescence quantum yield at 97% efficiency, the green silicate the lowest with 79% efficiency. Silicate phosphors show up to 15% loss of luminescence intensity when temperature is raised to 140°C.