Laser Lighting for Algae growth and Water for the World (LIGHTWAY)

High efficiency solid state lighting (SSL), in the form of LEDs, is becoming the main light source for general lighting. Unfortunately LEDs cannot operate at high power without loss of efficiency, a problem which does not affect laser diode light sources. Algae growth and horticulture are areas where maximal efficiency with an optimal light spectrum is critical to achieving the lowest running costs. Laser diodes, correctly heat managed and integrated with spectrum selected, low cost phosphors capable of handling high light intensities, and integrated optics for channelling and spreading the light, offer a means of developing next generation light sources for plant growth. The project will integrate the technology components, including laser diode sources, their power supplies and heat management, new phosphor materials, designs for optical light guides and light spreading including the phosphors and their heat management, along with production techniques and integrate them into systems for submersible, full volume algae growth and area illumination plant horticulture. The prototypes will be installed and monitored in test sites for algae growth for waste water treatment and plant growth in an indoor farm.