Amalgams for fluorescent lamps Part I: Thermodynamic design rules and limitations

摘要

In compact fluorescent lamps, amalgams can be used to control the mercury vapour pressure inside the lamp. Since the optimal mercury vapour pressure and the coolest spot temperature of these lamps differ for each particular lamp configuration, it is desired to be able to design amalgams in such a way that a mercury vapour pressure versus temperature curve suitable for an optimal light-output is obtained for each particular lamp geometry. Using regular solution thermodynamics, relations have been derived between the mercury vapour pressure of the amalgam and the melting point, melting enthalpy and mercury interaction enthalpy of the underlying alloy. From these relations amalgam design rules and amalgam design limitations have been formulated.