Spectrum

Transformation through Light

The spectrum is a classification that allows electromagnetic waves to be ordered according to their energy.

This spectrum ranges from radio waves, low energy, to gamma rays, high energy, including between these extremes the light visible to humans, ultraviolet radiation (UV) and infrared radiation (IR).

We offer customized spectra according to application:

Measurement and characteristics of sunlight

Sunlight, a primary source of energy and light for the planet, is measured using the unit of length called the nanometer (nm), which is equivalent to one billionth of a meter.

A spectrometer is the technical instrument used for this measurement, allowing light to be broken down into its spectrum and the different wavelengths that make it up to be analyzed.

The visible light range, which extends from 380 nm to 730 nm, is where the human eye can perceive light. In this segment, the wavelengths associated with the colors green, yellow and amber are the ones most easily detected by the human eye, reflecting a greater luminous flux in this part of the spectrum.

Solar LED Spectrum vs Solar Light

The importance of adjacent radiations

Beyond the visible spectrum, we find ultraviolet (UV) radiation below 380 nm and infrared (IR) radiation above 730 nm. Although these types of radiation are not visible to humans, they have important applications in science and technology.

UV radiation, for example, has applications in medicine, disinfection and chemical analysis, while IR is essential in heating systems, communications and sensor technology.

Characterization of LED light

LED lighting technology has gained popularity due to its energy efficiency and long lifetime. However, the spectrum of light emitted by conventional LEDs has distinctive characteristics, such as a high peak in the blue region of the spectrum.

This peak is the result of the way photons are generated in the LED’s semiconductor material.

Despite its efficiency, conventional LED light lacks a balanced representation of light blue and red colors, which can have implications for color perception and applications where color fidelity is critical.

Standard LED spectrum vs. solar light

The Impact of LED Light on Color Perception

LED lighting has revolutionized the way we illuminate our spaces, offering energy-efficient and long-lasting solutions.

However, one of the most intriguing and least discussed aspects of LED technology is its impact on color perception. This phenomenon is mainly due to differences in spectral distribution between LED light and traditional light sources, such as sunlight and incandescent light.

Spectral distribution and color perception

The perception of color by the human eye is a complex process that depends on the interaction between light, the object and the observer. Light incident on an object can be absorbed, transmitted or reflected to the eye, where the photoreceptors of the retina (cones sensitive to different wavelength ranges) interpret these light signals.

Sunlight considered a white light source, contains a full spectrum of colors, which allows a faithful chromatic representation of objects under its illumination.

In contrast, LED light is generated by light-emitting diodes that produce light in specific spectral ranges.

Although mixing different LEDs can create a “white” appearance, the specific spectral composition of an LED light may lack certain wavelengths present in sunlight.

This absence of wavelengths can affect the way we see colors, making some hues appear duller or different than they would under more spectrally balanced lighting.

Effects of LED Light on Color Perception

The most noticeable effect of LED lighting on color perception is the alteration of hues and saturation.

For example, LEDs with a pronounced peak in the blue spectrum can make cool colors appear more vibrant, while warm colors can appear duller.

This chromatic distortion can be especially problematic in environments where color fidelity is critical, such as in art galleries, clothing stores, and in the food industry, where product presentation is critical.

Low CRI

High CRI

Technological Advances to Improve Color Fidelity

In the face of these challenges, the lighting industry has developed more advanced LED technologies that seek to improve color rendering.

LEDs with higher color rendering indexes (CRI) and wider, more balanced emission spectra have been introduced to mitigate adverse effects on color perception.

These advances allow the light emitted by LEDs to more closely resemble the full spectrum of sunlight, improving the fidelity with which colors are perceived under this illumination.

Actilum’s tailor-made spectra for specific applications

Actilum excels in the lighting field by offering tailored spectrum solutions, adapting to a wide range of applications ranging from architecture and retail to wellness, horticulture and technical lighting.

In the architectural sector, Actilum provides solutions that enhance spaces, improving the visual perception of materials and creating ambiances that complement architectural design.

For the retail sector, custom-made spectrums enhance product presentation, highlighting colors and textures to attract consumer attention and stimulate purchase.

In the field of wellness, Actilum develops lighting that promotes visual health and circadian rhythm, helping to improve concentration and rest.

In horticulture, its specific solutions promote plant growth and health by optimizing photosynthesis through spectra adapted to the needs of different species.

Finally, in technical lighting applications, Actilum offers solutions that improve precision in tasks requiring high color fidelity and visual detail.

Actilum’s ability to customize the light spectrum opens up new possibilities in each of these fields, demonstrating how the right lighting can transform spaces, enhance experiences and contribute significantly to specific industry objectives.

Special red meat spectrum

Optimal spectrum for humans and plants

Spectra for fluorescent effects Neon

Future perspectives

The electromagnetic spectrum and its application in lighting technologies such as LEDs represent a field of constant study and development.

As we move forward, research is focused on improving the quality of LED light, seeking a more balanced spectrum that can better mimic sunlight and improve color rendering.

This includes developing LEDs with emission capabilities tuned to more effectively include reds and light blue, thereby improving the visual experience and reducing negative effects on color perception and human health.

A deeper understanding of the forms of radiation, electromagnetic energy and their interaction with LED technology opens avenues towards innovations that promise to transform the way we illuminate the spaces in which we live and work.

Learn more about us and let’s work together on your next custom lighting projects!

Led’s create together