In a groundbreaking study published in ‘Discover Materials’, researchers have explored an innovative approach to white light emission using Clitoria ternatea, commonly known as the butterfly pea flower. This research, led by V. P. Veena from the School of Pure and Applied Physics at Kannur University, presents a potential game-changer for the construction sector, particularly in the realm of sustainable lighting solutions.
The study reveals that the organic dyes found in the butterfly pea flower, specifically anthocyanin delphinidin and betalains betacyanin, emit light in the blue-green and red regions, centered around 490 nm and 630 nm, respectively. This unique combination of emissions could serve as a natural alternative to conventional rare-earth doped phosphor materials, which are widely used in white light-emitting diodes (wLEDs). “The potential for these natural extracts to replace conventional materials could lead to more environmentally friendly lighting solutions,” Veena stated, emphasizing the importance of sustainability in modern construction practices.
However, the research also identified a challenge: the rapid decay of luminescence in the organic dyes when used in their pure form. To address this, the team combined the floral extract with La2O3, an antioxidant material. This complex formation not only stabilized the emission intensity but also preserved the innate crystal structure of La2O3, as confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. The optical band gap of La2O3 was notably reduced from 5.1 eV to 2.5 eV, bringing it into the semiconductor range. This adjustment is significant because it enhances the material’s ability to emit light efficiently.
The implications of this research stretch beyond basic science. As the construction industry increasingly seeks sustainable solutions, the ability to harness natural materials for lighting could lead to reduced reliance on rare-earth elements, which are often associated with environmental degradation and supply chain issues. “Our findings suggest a viable pathway to integrating biocompatible materials into lighting technology, potentially transforming how we approach illumination in buildings,” Veena added.
The study examined various concentrations of the flower extract and different heating conditions to optimize the white light emission, marking a significant step forward in the development of novel lighting technologies. The commercial potential of such innovations is vast, as they could lead to more cost-effective and eco-friendly lighting options for residential and commercial spaces alike.
As the construction sector continues to evolve, this research highlights a promising direction toward integrating sustainable materials into everyday applications. The findings from Veena and her team not only pave the way for future developments in photoluminescence but also align with the growing demand for environmentally responsible construction practices. For more information on this research, you can visit the School of Pure and Applied Physics.
