LED Lighting in Saharan Networks: Ageing and Degradation Application to Adrar Region

International audience Using LEDs for lighting in the Saharan region has energy efficiency advantages, but there are durability concerns because of the extreme environmental conditions in deserts. With high ambient temperatures, intense solar UV exposure, sandstorm events, and low humidity, LED lighting will degrade. From an optical standpoint, extreme conditions may cause lumen depreciation, color shifts, and yellowing of encapsulants. The abrasive dust that is prevalent in deserts can lead to surface erosion and scattering of light. From an electrical standpoint, unstable power output from off-grid solar systems can cause voltage fluctuation and ultimately component failure. Types of degradation described above will impact LED lifespan, durability, and efficiency. Experimental investigations have identified three main mechanisms of degradation (thermal, optical, and electrical). Strategies to mitigate degradation effects include the use of advanced heat sinks to reduce LED operating temperature, UV resistant materials to attenuate UV performance loss, protecting LEDs from dust and fine sand grains in the environment, and controlling power systems to prevent voltage fluctuations and transient surge voltages. Laboratory environmental modelling is necessary to simulate destructive stressors in desert locations to conduct testing prior to deploying equipment. The advantage is designing more robust, durable, and reliable lighting systems for use in environments that present potential challenges to equipment functionality.