Osram launches broadband infrared LED

The firm is using converter technology for infrared emitters which results in an LED that emits broadband infrared light in a wavelength range from 650 to 1,050 nanometers (nm).

Mini spectrometers have been showcased and the SFH 4735 means a compact light source is available, it added.

Osram said one option would be a compact sensor - like a USB stick - used with a smartphone app to measure calories, freshness or nutritional content.

Infrared spectroscopy uses the absorption behaviour of certain molecular compounds. If a defined spectrum is directed at a sample it is possible to determine the presence and quantity of certain ingredients from the wavelength distribution of the reflected light.

Water, fat, carbohydrate, sugar or protein content of foodstuffs can be measured which provides an indication of freshness, quality or calorie content.

Future potential includes integration of spectrometers in mobile devices and extension of range to include wavelengths up to 2,000 nm - the middle infrared spectral range.

The basis of the SFH 4735 is a blue 1 mm2 chip in UX:3 technology. Its light is converted into infrared radiation with the aid of a phosphor converter. A residual blue component in the light helps users target the area they want to investigate.

The emission spectrum has a homogeneous spectral distribution in the infrared range. The chip is mounted in the Oslon Black Flat package.