'Bright' idea lights its way to win NASA contest

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

NASA Tech Briefs INSIDER newsletter 02/05/08 reports that the winner of the $20,000 first prize in the agency's "Create the Future" contest is an invention called "Litroenergy", the luminous output of micro particle "Litrospheres." Their self-luminance reportedly endures for over 12 years. The spheres are inexpensive, making them useful in many ways. The emitted light is said to be equivalent to a 40 watt bulb, sufficient for reading.

The invention is reported to safely encapsulate a small quantity of electron-emitting tritium with light emitting phosphors inside a robust microscopic sphere. Mixed into paints, plastic films or adhesive tape the spheres can be applied to surfaces for under a dollar per square foot. The maker suggests they will find first use in safety applications such as exit signage and aircraft corridor marking.

Sources

LFW Staff. "Long-lived self-luminous microspheres emit light without charging" — Laser Focus World, February 8, 2008
NASA. "Litroenergy - New Light Source Material" — NASA Tech Briefs INSIDER newsletter, February 5, 2008
"Energy-Saving Material Takes Top Prize in Design Contest" — CNN Money, February 4, 2008
Lisa Zyga. "Light Source Lasts 12 Years - No Electricity Needed" — PhysOrg.com, December 13, 2007
"Worldwide Emerging Environmental Issues Affecting The U.S. Military" — American Council for the UNU Millennium Project, December, 2007

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