This technology relates to nanoparticles that are particularly beneficial in optical systems. The nanoparticles include phosphor-functionalized particles with an inorganic nanoparticle core, surface polymer brushes in the form of long and short-chain polymers bonded to the inorganic nanoparticle core, and organic phosphors bonded to the inorganic nanoparticle core or the short-chain polymers. Applications for this technology include LEDs, lighting devices, fixtures, efficient light conversion materials, etc.

Rensselaer researchers have developed a smart, efficient, aesthetically pleasing, solid-state lighting system for homes and commercial spaces. Over 35% of the energy consumed by illumination can be saved by using advanced lighting control systems; however, these systems require frequent calibration and programming to adjust to interior redesign of the space and personal lighting needs. This technoloby involves LED fixtures that encode illumination with a time modulated data signal and incorporates a sparse network of low pixel light sensors distributed throughout the system.

Rensselaer researchers have developed programmable directed mesoscopic self-assembly and energy-assisted placement processes suitable for high speed, high accuracy, and low-defect rate LED system packaging operations. Current LED packaging technology is handled one semiconductor device element at a time, and is limited to a speed of about 10K units per hour. New technology is needed to package these devices, as well as associated control devices, into integrated lighting systems at much higher speeds, up to 10K units per minute.