The invention of the white LED lightbulb

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Apr 16, 2025

Discover the fascinating journey behind the invention of the white LED lightbulb from Japan in 1993. Learn about Professor Shuji Nakamura's resilience in overcoming funding issues and skepticism without a PhD. Dive into the challenges faced during the development of blue LEDs and the innovative phosphor technique that made white light possible. Explore how the widespread adoption of this energy-efficient technology has transformed modern lighting and its profound environmental impact.

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ANECDOTE

Shuji's "Banzai!" Moment

Professor Shuji Nakamura excitedly exclaimed "Banzai!" upon the success of his lifetime test for the first white LED.
This test confirmed the bulb's durability and marked a pivotal moment in lighting technology.

INSIGHT

Incandescent Inefficiency

Incandescent bulbs, like Edison's, were inefficient, producing more heat than light.
Scientists sought a better alternative, focusing on creating a white LED.

INSIGHT

The Missing Blue LED

Red and green LEDs already existed, but blue was the missing component for creating white light.
Combining red, green, and blue light produces white light, as demonstrated by John Chase.

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In 1993, a literal lightbulb moment led to the invention of the first white light emitting diode (LED).

These LEDs are now used to light up everything from our streets to our homes to this screen you’re looking at.

Along with two other Japanese engineers, Professor Shuji Nakamura, was behind this illuminating invention.

But Shuji’s journey to this point is one of resilience and perseverance. In his pursuit to discover the first commercial white LED, he had to overcome many obstacles along the way.

With less funding than his counterparts and one of the only inventors without a PhD degree, Shuji stood out from the crowd.

He set out to get his PhD degree and found one of the most sought-after inventions along the way.

Professor Shuji Nakamura speaks to Natasha Fernandes about finding the light and how it might not be what you would expect.

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(Photo: Shuji Nakamura speaks during a news conference with LED lights on display. Credit: Kevork Djansezian via Getty Images)