Let’s zoom in on this fascinating piece of technology to find out what goes into making an LED.

Red and amber LEDs use the aluminum indium gallium phosphide (AlInGaP) material system. Blue, green, and cyan LEDs use the indium gallium nitride (InGaN) system.

This die is then loaded onto metal leads for contact. A gold wire is also used to bond the leads to each other.

Finally, to direct the light output towards one direction, a silicone lens is added for optics requirements. This assembly is further sealed in an epoxy resin casing that amplifies the light and adds color.

The outer body of the LED depends on the kind of light it is meant to be. A standard LED bulb’s body will be made of plastic, making it lighter to handle and cheaper to buy. Not to forget it won’t fall and break.

Designer LED bulbs are made of glass to highlight filament style design inside or make them last longer if the bulb runs on a higher voltage.

Finally, the LED is fitted with aluminium heat sinks for thermal heat management, and everything is mounted to an insulated plastic base that is cool to touch.