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| Photuris lucicrescens (Photograhper: Bruce Marlin) |
Scientists from Canada, France and Belgium have increased the amount of light released from LEDs (Light-emitting diode) by 55 percent. The discovery is from the abdomen of Photuris firefly, where there are serrated scales which enhance the glow emitted. These structures decrease internal reflections, causing more light to escape. This adaptation is beneficial for the fireflies because more light means being more attractive to mates.
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| Firelfy scales |
Light produced by LEDs faces the same challenge as light from the abdomen of a firefly. Much of the light is reflected back into the device reducing the efficiency of LEDs. Scientists were able to recreate the fireflies serrated surface and overlay it on a LED increasing the emitted light by 55 percent.
This technology would not only help save energy, but also shows that much of our technology can be improved by studying mechanisms and structures that already exist in nature.
Source:
MIT Technology Review
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