Aplicación Práctica / Practical Issues

Recibido: 07-11-2025, Aprobado tras revisión: 14-01-2026

Forma sugerida de citación: Meneses, A.; Pombo, A.; Ventura, C.; Lourenço, E.; Fortes, M.; Ayres A. (2026). “Evaluación

Experimental del Desempeño Fotométrico de Luminarias LED para Alumbrado Público Bajo Envejecimiento Acelerado”. Revista

Técnica “energía”. No. 22, Issue II, Pp. 104-113

ISSN On-line: 2602-8492 - ISSN Impreso: 1390-5074

Doi: https://doi.org/10.37116/revistaenergia.v22.n2.2026.726

No Comercial 4.0

Experimental Evaluation of the Photometric Performance of LED Luminaires

for Public Lighting under Accelerated Aging

Evaluación Experimental del Desempeño Fotométrico de Luminarias LED

para Alumbrado Público Bajo Envejecimiento Acelerado

A. R. Meneses1

0000-0002-7684-503X

A. Pombo1

0009-0007-3311-1064

C. H. Ventura1

0000-0002-6729-9209

E. Lourenço1

0000-0002-9534-9509

M. Z. Fortes1

0000-0003-4040-8126

R. Ayres1

0000-0001-6239-9705

1 Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Brazil

E-mail: anarmsb@id.uff.br, alanpombo@id.uff.br, carloshenriques@id.uff.br, eduardo_lourenco@id.uff.br,

mzamboti@id.uff.br , rafaelayres@id.uff.br

Abstract

This work presents an experimental investigation of the

effects of aging on the photometric performance of

public luminaires equipped with LED technology. Four

commercial models with powers of 40W, 80W, 150W,

and 200W were evaluated, subjected to standardized

tests under controlled laboratory conditions. The tests

followed the IES LM-80-15 standards and INMETRO

regulations, and included photometric analyses,

goniometric tests, UV radiation tests, and In-Situ

thermal measurements (ISTMT). The results reveal

significant variations in luminous flux, energy

efficiency, and light quality over six thousand hours of

simulated operation. Optical degradation, especially of

the lenses, showed a direct impact on the uniformity of

light distribution. The study provides relevant technical

support for the specification, acquisition, and

maintenance of public luminaires, contributing to the

increase of the lifespan and efficiency of the urban

lighting system.

Resumen

Este trabajo presenta una investigación experimental

sobre los efectos del envejecimiento en el desempeño

fotométrico de luminarias públicas equipadas con

tecnología LED. Se evaluaron cuatro modelos

comerciales con potencias de 40 W, 80 W, 150 W y 200

W, sometidos a ensayos estandarizados en condiciones

controladas de laboratorio. Las pruebas se realizaron de

acuerdo con las normas IES LM-80-15 y las

regulaciones del INMETRO, e incluyeron análisis

fotométricos, ensayos goniométricos, pruebas de

radiación ultravioleta y mediciones térmicas in situ

(ISTMT). Los resultados revelan variaciones

significativas en el flujo luminoso, la eficiencia

energética y la calidad de la luz más de seis mil horas de

operación simulada. La degradación óptica,

especialmente de las lentes, mostró un impacto directo

en la uniformidad de la distribución luminosa. El

estudio proporciona un soporte técnico relevante para la

especificación, adquisición y mantenimiento de

luminarias públicas, contribuyendo al aumento de la

vida útil y la eficiencia del sistema de alumbrado

urbano.

Index terms—

Public lighting, LED, accelerated

aging, photometric performance, laboratory tests,

regulatory compliance.

Palabras clave— Alumbrado público, LED,

envejecimiento acelerado, desempeño fotométrico,

ensayos de laboratorio, cumplimiento normativo.

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Edición No. 22, Issue II, Enero 2026

1. INTRODUCTION

The replacement of traditional public lighting systems

with luminaires based on LED (Light Emitting Diode)

technology represents a milestone in the advancement of

public policies aimed at energy efficiency, sustainability,

and urban safety. This technological transition has been

widely encouraged by regulatory bodies and government

programs, such as the National Electric Energy

Conservation Program (PROCEL), due to the high

luminous efficacy, longer lifespan, and lower

environmental impact of LED solutions ([1], [2]).

However, the long-term reliability of LED luminaires still

raises technical concerns, especially regarding the

stability of their photometric parameters in operating

environments. The optical degradation of materials, aging

of electronic components, and thermal variations directly

affect the performance and regulatory compliance of these

devices ([3][4],[6]).It is therefore essential to conduct

experimental investigations that simulate real conditions

of prolonged use, considering not only the initial tests but

also the impact of extended operation cycles, ultraviolet

radiation, temperature variations, and environmental

exposure. Technical standards such as IES LM-80-15 and

INMETRO Ordinance No. 25/2022 establish the criteria

and methodologies for characterizing the maintenance of

luminous flux, luminous efficacy, thermal stability, and

chromatic characteristics of LED luminaires ([3], [5],

[7]).Recent research (e.g., [4], [5]) demonstrates that,

although LEDs exhibit slow and progressive degradation,

optical elements such as polycarbonate or polypropylene

lenses are highly susceptible to UV radiation and can to

present yellowing, cracks or loss of transparency.

These effects compromise the photometry of the

luminaire even when the emitting chip still maintains

satisfactory performance. Thus, it becomes essential to

evaluate the system as a whole — LED, driver, housing,

heatsink, and optics — in an integrated manner and in

accordance with the conditions of use. In this context, this

article proposes a rigorous approach to evaluating the

photometric performance of four models of LED

luminaires used in public lighting in Brazil. The research

was conducted at the Luminotechnics Laboratory of the

Federal Fluminense University (LABLUX/UFF),

accredited by INMETRO, through the performance of

photometric tests, goniometric tests, UV aging, in situ

thermal tests (ISTMT), and lifespan tests, according to the

recommendations of applicable standards.

The study aims to quantify the impacts of accelerated

aging on photometric parameters, validate compliance

with legal requirements, and provide technical support for

decision-making by municipalities, concessionaires, and

manufacturers. The article is structured as follows: section

2 presents the theoretical and normative foundations that

support the adopted methodology; section 3 defines the

specific objectives of the investigation; section 4

describes the models of luminaires studied and the

experimental protocol; section 5 details the tests

performed; section 6 discusses the results obtained; and

section 7 presents the conclusions and technical

recommendations.

This study contributes to scientific literature by

presenting laboratory-measured data obtained in

accordance with applicable technical standards,

emphasizing the relevance of evaluating key parameters

throughout the service life of LED public lighting

luminaires. The assessment of these parameters is

essential for verifying performance stability, degradation

behavior, and luminous quality, thereby supporting

compliance evaluation, product qualification, and

regulatory decision-making.

2. THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK AND

LUMINOTECHNICAL FOUNDATIONS

2.1 Fundamentals of Photometry and

Luminotechnics

The characterization of the performance of public

lighting systems with LED technology requires the

understanding and application of fundamental principles

of photometry, a field of optics dedicated to measuring

visible light in terms of its perception by the human eye.

The basic photometric quantities used in this study

include Luminous Flux (Φ), Luminous Intensity (I),

lluminance (E), Luminance (L), Luminous Efficacy (η),

Correlated Color Temperature (CCT or CCT), Color

Rendering Index (CRI), Maintenance Factor (FM).

In addition to these classic concepts, the present study

makes use of complementary metrics such as the BUG

parameter (Backlight, Uplight, Glare), developed by the

Illuminating Engineering Society of North America

(IESNA), which classifies the distribution of luminous

flux in zones for controlling light pollution.

2.2 Fundamental Technical Standards

The investigation is anchored on a solid normative

basis, composed of regulations and technical procedures

that ensure the comparability and reproducibility of

results. The following applied standards stand out:

• IES LM-80-15 – Defines the procedures for

measuring the maintenance of luminous flux of LEDs

over time. [8]

• INMETRO Ordinance No. 25/2022 – Establishes

criteria for performance evaluation and energy efficiency

of public lighting fixtures. [9]

• ENERGY STAR TM-21-11 – Protocol for

estimating the lifespan of LEDs based on LM-80 data.

[10]

• IESNA LM-79-19 – Procedure for photometric

and electrical measurement of LED-based lighting

products. [11]

• ASTM G154-16 – Standard for accelerated UV

exposure testing for plastics and polymeric materials.

[12]

• CIE 13.3-1995 - Method of Measuring and

Specifying Colour Rendering Properties of Light Sources

[13].

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Meneses et al. / Evaluation of the Photometric Performance of LED Luminaires for Public Lighting under Accelerated Aging

These standards ensure that the tests conducted at

LABLUX/UFF comply

with national and

international performance and safety requirements.

They also underpin the criteria for mandatory

certification of products in Brazil.

2.3 Degradation of Optical Components

Although LED chips exhibit good stability over the

projected lifespan (50,000 hours or more), several studies

indicate that the optical elements of luminaires — such

as diffusers and collimating lenses made of

polycarbonate or polypropylene — are sensitive to

degradation induced by ultraviolet radiation and thermal

variations ([5], [6]). Phenomena such as yellowing, loss

of transparency, formation of microcracks, and

modification of the refractive index result in significant

losses of useful luminous flux, alteration of the emission

spectrum, and distortion of the spatial distribution of

light. Figure 1 illustrates the outcome of this process in

lenses exposed for six thousand hours in a UV chamber.

Figure 1: Process in Lenses Exposed for Six Thousand Hours

in a UV Chamber.

2.4 Importance of Systemic Evaluation

The photometric behavior of an LED luminaire

cannot be evaluated in isolation from the emitting source.

The interaction between the various elements — light

source, driver, housing, heat sink, optical elements, and

mounting system — determines the actual performance

of the luminaire in the field ([4], [5]). Thus, tests such as

absolute photometry, ISTMT (In Situ Temperature

Measurement Test), and accelerated aging simulations

are essential to extrapolate the LED behavior in the

laboratory to real urban operating conditions. The use of

the TM-21/LM-80 spreadsheet, as recommended by

Energy Star [4], enables this projection based on reliable

measurements.

3. STUDY OBJECTIVE

The increasing adoption of LED luminaires in public

lighting requires systematic analyses that demonstrate

their durability, photometric stability, and compliance

with technical standards under real or simulated

prolonged use conditions. Thus, the main objective of

this study is: To evaluate the impact of accelerated aging

on the photometric, chromatic, and energy performance

of different models of LED luminaires used in public

lighting, focusing on the degradation of optical

components and the variation of normative parameters of

technical compliance. Specifically, the work seeks to:

• Quantify the depreciation of luminous flux,

luminous efficacy, and correlated color temperature

(CCT) over six thousand hours of simulated operation.

• Verify the maintenance of luminous distribution

through goniometric tests according to the BUG criteria

of IESNA.

• Evaluate the effect of ultraviolet (UV) radiation

on the optical behavior of polypropylene and

polycarbonate lenses, with special attention to the color

rendering index (CRI) and the R9 parameter.

• Conduct In Situ Test (ISTMT) for critical thermal

analysis of the most exposed LED of the luminaire,

correlating the measurements with the LM-80 data and

estimating the projected lifespan (L70) through the

ENERGY STAR model ([10]).

• Validate compliance with INMETRO Ordinance

No. 25/2022 and other applicable standards regarding the

minimum performance required for the marketing and

certification of public LED luminaires in Brazil.

4. CASE STUDY

4.1 Luminaire Models

The following LED luminaire models were analyzed

as shown in Table 1, with typical application in public

lighting:

Table 1: LED Luminaire Models

Model

Power

Color

Temp.

Degree

Protecti

Optical

Class.

GL 421

200W

5000K

IP66

Type II -

Medium

Modular

LED

Aries

80W

4000K

IP66

Type II -

Short

150W

6500k

IP66

Type I -

Short

Modular

LED

Aries

40W

5000K

IP66

Type II -

Short

The selection of models was based on availability

at the LABLUX/UFF laboratory and the

representativeness of the national market. All

models were provided by manufacturers with a

consolidated presence in the public lighting segment.

4.2 Methodological Considerations

The luminaires used were made available

exclusively for testing purposes, with mandatory

return to the manufacturer at the end of the study,

according to the granting protocol.

The 200W luminaire (GL 421) was the only one to

have the LM-80 report of the LED, allowing the In

Situ Test (ISTMT) to be conducted with an estimated

lifespan based on TM- 21 extrapolation. The other

luminaires were subjected to flux maintenance tests,

according to the guidelines of [9].

All experimental tests were conducted on fully

assembled luminaires, evaluated as integrated

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Edición No. 22, Issue II, Enero 2026

systems. The in-situ measurement was the only test

performed at the LED level; however, it was carried

out with the LED mounted within the luminaire

assembly, ensuring that the electrical, thermal, and

optical operating conditions were representative of

actual luminaire operation.

All tests were conducted at the LABLUX

laboratory, and the reported results present traceable

measurement uncertainty values.

4.3 Equipment Used

The following instruments were used (Figure 2),

all properly calibrated according to metrological

requirements:

• Ulbricht Integrating Sphere – Measurement of

total luminous flux.

• Everfine DPS Voltage Source – Control of

voltage and supply frequency (220 VAC / 60 Hz).

• Everfine HAAS 2000 Spectroradiometer –

Measurement of spectrum, CCT, and color rendering

index.

• Yokogawa WT210 Wattmeter – Accurate

measurement of active power and power factor.

Figure 2: Ulbricht Integrating Sphere and Goniophotometer

All tests were conducted in a controlled environment

(25 ± 1 ºC and relative humidity < 65%).

4.4 Testing Schedule

The luminaires remained in continuous operation for

six thousand hours, with data collection at regular

intervals. Table 2 summarizes the adopted schedule:

Table 2: Summary of the schedule

Time Marker

Operating

Time

Actual

Date

Installation

0 h

06/11/2017

1st Measurement

1000 h

20/07/2023

2nd Measurement

2000 h

07/11/2023

3rd Measurement

3000 h

20/12/2023

Final Test

6000 h

(according to simulation)

5. TESTS CONDUCTED

This section details the experimental procedures

applied in the evaluation of the performance of LED

luminaires, according to technical standards and

testing protocols adopted by the Lighting Laboratory

of the Federal Fluminense University (LABLUX). The

tests were conducted with the aim of measuring

changes in the photometric and electrical parameters

of the devices over six thousand hours of simulated

operation.

5.1 Photometric Test

The photometric tests were conducted according to

the parameters of IES LM-79-19 and INMETRO

Ordinance No. 25/2022. Measurements were taken

initially and after intervals of 1000h, 2000h, 3000h,

and 6000h. The following parameters were recorded:

• Luminous Flux (lm).

• Luminous Efficiency (lm/W).

• Correlated Color Temperature (CCT).

• Color Rendering Index (CRI and R1 to R15).

• Electric Current (A), Voltage (V), Power (W), and

Power Factor (PF).

5.2 Goniometric Test

The goniometric test was conducted using a type C

goniophotometer, according to the IES LM-79-19

specification. The equipment allows measuring the

spatial distribution of luminous intensity in spherical

coordinates and generating photometric files (.IES).

Variations of the BUG (Backlight, Uplight, Glare)

system were evaluated over the initial 3000h of

operation. The 80W and 150W luminaires showed

variations in the glare index and in the flow

distribution, changing from B2-U2-G2 to B3-U2-G2

and B3-U1-G1 respectively. The 200W luminaire

showed stability in the BUG parameter, maintaining

the classification B4-U2- G4.

5.3 Ultraviolet Test (UV)

The UV test was conducted in the OTS UV Test

Machine chamber, illustrated in Figure 3, simulating

continuous solar exposure with UV-B radiation (280–

315 nm) and control of temperature and humidity.

Figure 3: Temperature Trend Line of the Studied Models

The polypropylene lenses remained in the chamber

for 2016h, in cycles of 12h, with 8h exposed to 70 ºC

and 0.49 W/m², and 4h with humidity at 100% at 50

ºC. Cloudiness, loss of transparency, and color change

were observed in the lenses.

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Meneses et al. / Evaluation of the Photometric Performance of LED Luminaires for Public Lighting under Accelerated Aging

5.4 Life Test

The luminaires were kept in continuous operation

for six thousand hours in a controlled environment as

illustrated in Figure 4. This test, according to [3],

allows verifying the maintenance of luminous flux and

other characteristics over time. The measurements

followed the same periodicity as the photometric tests.

Figure 4: Life Test

5.5 In Situ Thermal Test (ISTMT)

The ISTMT test was applied exclusively to the

200W GL 421 luminaire, which had an LM-80 report

provided by the manufacturer. According to IES TM-

21-11 and Energy Star [4], the LED temperature was

measured using a type K thermocouple, installed at the

point of highest thermal dissipation, as shown in

Figure 5.

Figure 5: Connections in the Luminaire for the ISTMT Test

During the tests, the luminaire was positioned in

the climate chamber at 45 ºC for 40 minutes as

illustrated in Figure 6. The temperature and current

data allowed for a comparison of performance with

the limits of LM-80.

6. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The analysis of the results obtained over six

thousand hours of testing demonstrated

measurable variations in the photometric,

spectral, and thermal performance of the

evaluated luminaires. The results are presented

below by evaluated parameters, emphasizing

degradation behavior and compliance with

applicable technical requirements.

Figure 6: Schematic of the ISTMT Test

Table 3 presents a comparison of the

photometric parameters measured before and after

the aging tests, highlighting the depreciation of

luminous flux, correlated color temperature (CCT),

and luminous efficacy.

Table 3: C

ompares the Photometric Parameters

Goniometric testing identified changes in

luminous intensity distribution and glare-related

parameters for the 80 W and 150 W luminaires. The

80 W luminaire exhibited a change in BUG

classification from B2–U2–G2 to B3–U2–G2,

while the 150 W model changed from B3–U1–G1

to B3–U2–G2. The 200 W luminaire maintained its

BUG classification throughout the test period,

remaining at B4–U2–G4.

The ultraviolet (UV) exposure test revealed

visible yellowing of the optical lenses after aging,

as shown in Figure 2, indicating degradation of the

optical material. Life test results further indicated

that most luminaires experienced significant

performance depreciation after three thousand hours

of operation. Although the 40 W luminaire

exhibited greater thermal and spectral stability up to

this point, it did not comply with the CCT

acceptance criteria at six thousand hours.

Power

Maintenance Initial Final Initial Final Initial Final Initial Final

Luminous Flux (lm) 6953.80 5640.60 11551.70 10363.79 16072.60 11977.20 38992.30 31493.88

Eficiencia

Luminosa (lm/W)

172.55 140.98 143.28 129.06 116.88 86.00 195.73 159.74

CCT (K) 5033.88 4361.00 4118.04 3852.36 6822.36 5311.44 5063.04 4335.12

Ra 77.70 75.60 76.70 75.60 79.90 76.30 77.70 75.70

R1 75.00 71.00 74.00 72.00 77.00 71.00 74.00 71.00

R2 83.00 81.00 83.00 82.00 84.00 82.00 84.00 82.00

R3 88.00 89.00 89.00 90.00 87.00 90.00 89.00 90.00

R4 76.00 74.00 75.00 73.00 79.00 77.00 75.00 72.00

R5 75.00 71.00 73.00 71.00 79.00 72.00 74.00 71.00

R6 75.00 73.00 75.00 74.00 78.00 75.00 76.00 74.00

R7 87.00 87.00 84.00 84.00 87.00 87.00 86.00 86.00

R8 64.00 59.00 60.00 57.00 68.00 60.00 63.00 59.00

R9 -3.00 -12.00 -6.00 -9.00 1.00 -16.00 -6.00 -13.00

R10 57.00 54.00 58.00 57.00 60.00 56.00 59.00 57.00

R11 71.00 67.00 69.00 67.00 75.00 67.00 68.00 65.00

R12 56.00 50.00 56.00 53.00 64.00 54.00 55.00 50.00

R13 76.00 73.00 75.00 74.00 79.00 73.00 76.00 73.00

R14 93.00 93.00 93.00 94.00 92.00 94.00 94.00 94.00

R15 70.00 66.00 69.00 67.00 74.00 66.00 70.00 66.00

I (A) 0.20 0.20 0.38 0.37 0.65 0.66 0.92 0.91

U (V) 220.00 220.00 220.00 220.00 219.80 219.80 219.60 219.70

P (W) 40.30 40.01 80.62 80.30 137.50 139.30 199.20 197.10

PF 0.92 0.92 0.97 0.98 0.96 0.96 0.98 0.98

40 W

80 W

150 W

200 W

0.81

0.90

0.75

0.81

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Edición No. 22, Issue II, Enero 2026

6.1 Maintenance of Luminous Flux

The depreciation of luminous flux was evaluated

through photometric measurements conducted at

multiple time intervals over six thousand hours of

operation. The results indicate that luminous flux

loss becomes more pronounced after three thousand

hours, with the most significant degradation

observed in the 150W and 200W luminaires. The

150W model exhibited an approximate luminous

flux reduction of 25% at 6000 h, suggesting

potential non-compliance with the maintenance

criteria established by INMETRO Ordinance No.

25/2022.

The distinct luminous flux behaviors observed

between the 150W and 80W luminaires are

attributed to differences in thermal and optical stress

associated with their respective operating power

levels. Higher-power luminaires are subjected to

increased thermal load, elevated LED junction

temperatures, and higher photon density, which

accelerate degradation mechanisms at both the LED

package and system levels. Consequently, the 150

W luminaire presented a more pronounced

luminous flux depreciation over time, whereas the

80 W model exhibited a comparatively more stable

performance.

These results are consistent with findings

reported in scientific literature, which indicate that

luminous flux degradation in LED luminaires is

primarily driven by the combined effects of

thermally induced LED lumen depreciation and

aging of optical components, particularly polymeric

lenses and protective covers [14], [15]. Optical

materials exposed to elevated temperatures and

short-wavelength radiation are prone to yellowing

and transmittance loss, leading to a reduction in

effective luminous flux even when electrical

operating conditions remain within specified limits

[16].

To support the comparison between luminaires

of different wattages, a deviation analysis was

performed using coefficients of variation and

temporal performance trends. This methodology

enables the identification of systematic degradation

effects while reducing the influence of

measurement uncertainty, thereby confirming that

the observed differences in luminous flux behavior

are physically meaningful and directly related to

operating conditions rather than experimental

variability [13].

Overall, the results demonstrate that higher-

power LED luminaires are more susceptible to

accelerated photometric degradation due to

combined thermal and optical stresses,

underscoring the importance of system-level

evaluation and extended aging tests for the

assessment of long-term performance, durability,

and regulatory compliance. In this context, it is

recommended that the testing period be extended

beyond 6,000 hours to enable a more robust

evaluation, as this operating duration corresponds to

stabilized and representative operating conditions of

the luminaire components.

Table 4 Maintenance of Luminous Flux shows

the measured luminous flux values in the different

luminaires over 6000 h of operation:

Table 4: Maintenance of Luminous flux (lm)

Model

1000h

2000h

3000h

6000h

40W

6953.8

6566.4

7307.3

7786.8

5640.6

80W

11551.7

11945.9

10997.6

12720.2

10363.8

150W

16072.2

15189.1

15958.1

14669.6

11977.2

200W

38992.3

29539.1

33002.6

43337.2

31493.9

6.2 Luminous Efficiency

The luminous efficiency followed a trajectory

like the luminous flux. Fixtures with higher initial

power showed greater sensitivity to thermal and

optical degradation. The efficiency of the 150W

model dropped from 116.88 lm/W to 86.00 lm/W by

the end of the period, while the 200W model

reduced from 195.73 lm/W to159.74 lm/W. Such

values, although still technically acceptable under

certain applications, indicate that optical systems

(lenses and diffusers) strongly contribute to

efficiency losses, even when the LEDs maintain

their internal performance. Table 4 The analysis of

the coefficient of variation (CV%) of luminous

efficiency reinforces the observed trend. The 200W

model showed the highest fluctuation, with a CV of

15.52%, followed by the 150W model (12.31%). The

40W and 80W models demonstrated greater stability

over 6000h, with CVs of 11.45% and 7.85%,

respectively.

These results indicate a more pronounced

sensitivity to thermal and optical degradation in

higher power models.

6.3 Correlated Color Temperature (CCT) and IRCA

The correlated color temperature (CCT) of the

evaluated luminaires exhibited significant

variations throughout the aging process, particularly

for the 150 W and 200 W models. The 150 W

luminaire showed a pronounced shift from 6822 K

to 5311 K, characterizing a critical deviation in light

coloration that is strongly associated with optical

aging effects. This behavior is further corroborated

by the reduction of the R9 index (saturated red)

from +1 to −16, indicating selective spectral

absorption typically linked to yellowing and partial

opacification of polypropylene lenses, as evidenced

in Figure 1.

The coefficient of variation (CV) of the CCT

reinforces the observed spectral instability in

higher-power luminaires, with values of 9.93% and

6.36% for the 150 W and 200 W models,

respectively. In contrast, the 40 W and 80 W

luminaires exhibited greater chromatic stability,

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Meneses et al. / Evaluation of the Photometric Performance of LED Luminaires for Public Lighting under Accelerated Aging

with CVs of 5.92% and 3.35%, respectively. These

results suggest a clear correlation between

luminaire power, increased thermal and optical

stress, and susceptibility to chromatic degradation.

Such spectral shifts directly compromise color

fidelity and may adversely affect visual perception

and safety in public lighting applications.

According to CIE Publication 13.3, the Color

Rendering Index (CRI), referred to in Portuguese as

Índice de Reprodução de Cor (IRC), is defined as a

metric for characterizing the color rendering

properties of a light source relative to a reference

illuminant. The general color rendering index, Ra,

is calculated as the arithmetic mean of the first eight

special color rendering indices (R1–R8), which

represent color samples of moderate saturation and

are widely adopted in technical specifications.

However, Ra does not account for saturated colors

or specific visual conditions. To address this

limitation, the special color rendering indices R9 to

R15 are defined as complementary parameters,

representing highly saturated colors and specific

samples, including saturated red (R9), skin tones,

foliage, and other relevant materials. These indices

are not included in the calculation of Ra and provide

additional insight into spectral deficiencies of the

light source.

Several studies have demonstrated that light

sources with high Ra values may still exhibit poor

reproduction of saturated red colors, a deficiency

effectively captured by the R9 index [14], [17]–

[20]. Therefore, R9 is widely recognized as a critical

complementary metric for assessing the spectral

quality and long-term color rendering performance

of LED-based lighting systems, particularly in

applications where accurate color perception is

essential.

6.4 BUG Parameters and Photometric Distribution

Goniometric tests showed changes in the BUG

parameters over time, especially in the glare index. The

80W model evolved from B2-U2-G2 to B3-U2-G2 after

two thousand hours, indicating an increase in the glare

component. Such variations may be associated with

microfissures or imperfections in the lenses, which

redirect light beams and affect spatial distribution. The

200W model, on the other hand, maintained the B4-U2-

G4 classification throughout the entire test,

demonstrating greater optical robustness and stability of

the lens and reflector system.

Table 6 BUG Classification Over Time

Model

1000h

2000h

3000h

40W

B2-U1-G1

80W

B2-U2-G2

B3-U2-G2

150W

B3-U1-G1

B3-U2-G1

200W

B4-U2-G4

6.5 Impacts of the UVO

Test accelerated aging in UV chamber revealed

degradations consistent with the results of photometric

tests. A reduction in TCC was observed in all models,

visible yellowing of the lenses, and loss of optical

transparency. The 150W luminaire also showed the worst

results in this test, indicating the fragility of its

components against UV radiation. Figure 7 shows the

main impacts recorded before and after six thousand

hours of exposure.

Figure 7: The 150W Luminaire Recorded Before and After

Six Thousand Hours of Exposure

The correlation between UV and TCC loss was clear

and consistent among the models, strengthening the

hypothesis that plastic diffusers represent the critical link

in the optical durability of luminaires.

Table 7 Table 6 BUG Classification Over Time

Model

Initial

Flux

(lm)

Final

Flux

(lm)

Initial

Efficienc

y (lm/W)

Final

Efficien

(lm/W)

ΔR9

40W

6953.8

5640.6

172.55

140.98

-9

80W

11551.7

10363.79

143.28

129.06

-3

150W

16072.6

11977.2

116.88

86.00

-17

200W

38992.3

31493.88

195.73

159.74

-7

6.6 Comparison with LM-80

Model GL 421 The only model evaluated based

on the manufacturer's LM-80 was the GL 421

(200W). The comparison between the measured

values and the reference curves (85 ºC and 105 ºC)

indicated compliance only up to 3000h, with

performance exceeding expectations. However, at

6000h, the measured flux represented only 81% of

the initial value, while the LM-80 curve suggested

maintenance above 97%. The discrepancy suggests

the direct influence of external elements to the LED,

such as heat sinks, encapsulation, and lenses. Table 8

presents the percentage comparison between the

predicted and measured flux, reinforcing the

importance of the systemic analysis of the luminaire

— not just the LED components in isolation.

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Edición No. 22, Issue II, Enero 2026

Table 8 Data Referring to the LED Indicated in the LM80

Manufacturer: Hongli Zhihui Grip Co., Ltd. Guangzhou Branch

Number: HL-EMC-3030DW-2C-S1-HR3

Part Type: Conjunto LED; Operating Current: DC 150mA;

Nominal CCT: 2700K; Power: 1,02W; Current Density per LED

die: 930.0019mA/mm2; Power Density per LED die: 3.162W/mm2

LM-80 test details

Total number of units tested

per case temperature:

Number of failures:

Number of units measured:

Test duration (hours):

9000

Test drive current (mA)

(mA):

150

Temperature 1 (Tc, °C):

Temperature 2 (Tc, °C):

105

Temperature 3 (Tc, °C):

In-Situ Input Data

Indicial

3000h

LED operating current per

package/strip/module (mA):

43,9

In-Situ case temperature (Tc,

°C):

43.9

42.7

Percentage of initial lumens to

project to (e.g., for L70, enter

70):

Results:

Time (t) for lumen maintenance

projection (hours):

54.000

Lumen maintenance at time (t)

(%):

84.51%

83%

Reported L70 (hours):

>54,000

Table 8 shows the result of the extrapolation of

useful life. The estimated L70 value was over 54,000

hours, confirming the thermal robustness of the

system for this model. The wiring diagram of the

measurement cables and the position of the

thermocouple are presented in Figures 5 and 6, which

accurately illustrate the experimental procedure.

7. CONCLUSIONS AND TECHNICAL

RECOMMENDATIONS

This research clearly demonstrated that

accelerated aging tests demonstrated a significant

degradation of LED public luminaires after 6,000

hours of simulated operation. Luminous flux losses

intensified after 3,000 hours, reaching approximately

25%

in the 150 W luminaire and

19%

in the 200 W

model, while lower-power luminaires showed

comparatively better stability.

Luminous efficacy decreased by up to

26%

indicating that performance losses are strongly

associated with optical degradation rather than

electrical instability alone. Pronounced chromatic

shifts were observed, with correlated color

temperature reductions exceeding

1,500 K

in higher-

power luminaires and

R9 decreases of up to 17

points

, confirming selective spectral degradation in

the red region and the inadequacy of relying solely

on Ra for long-term color quality assessment.

Goniometric measurements revealed changes in

luminous distribution and glare-related BUG

components for some models, while comparison with

LM-80 data showed that luminaire-level luminous

flux dropped to approximately

81%

of the initial

value despite projected LED L70 values above

54,000 hours

These results quantitatively confirm that optical

components are the primary limiting factor in the

long-term photometric performance of LED public

luminaires, highlighting the necessity of system-level

aging evaluation in certification and specification

processes.

The methodology used, based on IES standards

LM-80, LM-79, TM-21, TM-28 and Brazilian

regulations from INMETRO, ensures the credibility

and robustness of the results obtained. The presence

of ISTMT tests also allowed for the extrapolation of

useful life based on thermal and optical data under

real application conditions. It is recommended, based

on the results:

• Revaluation of the criteria for selecting optical

materials, prioritizing lenses with greater UV

resistance and lower spectral variation.

• Mandatory inclusion of ISTMT tests in

certification processes to ensure thermal

compatibility and maintenance of luminous flux

of the LEDs used.

• Application of more conservative methodologies

in estimating useful life when LM-80 is not

provided by the manufacturer.

• Creation of preventive maintenance programs

based on photometric and thermal metrics

collected in the field.

• The study contributes to the technical

advancement in the field of public lighting,

providing quantitative and methodological data

that support public policies, regulations, and

engineering decisions for more efficient, durable,

and sustainable projects.

• It is recommended for

• Future study that the testing period be extended

beyond 6,000 hours to allow for a more robust

evaluation of long-term performance, as this

operating duration corresponds to the phase in

which the luminaire components reach stabilized

and representative operating conditions.

8. ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors would like to acknowledge the Fundação

Euclides da Cunha (FEC) for its institutional support

throughout the development of this work, and the

Laboratory of Photometry and Electrical

Measurements (LABLUX) for providing the

infrastructure, equipment, and technical assistance

required for the execution of the experimental tests.

The collaboration of both institutions was essential

for the completion and quality of the results obtained.

111

Meneses et al. / Evaluation of the Photometric Performance of LED Luminaires for Public Lighting under Accelerated Aging

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Ana Regina Meneses e Silva

Becker. - Obtuvo el título de

Ingeniera Electricista por la

Universidade Federal Fluminense

(UFF), Brasil, en 2010. Obtuvo un

posgrado en Ingeniería de

Seguridad del Trabajo en 2016 y

una maestría en Ingeniería

Eléctrica y Telecomunicaciones en 2024. Cuenta con más

de diez años de experiencia profesional en empresas

nacionales y multinacionales de los sectores de Petróleo

y Gas, Proyectos de Ingeniería, Distribución de Energía

y Ensayos y Certificación para el sector energético

global. Actualmente es investigadora y estudiante de

doctorado en la Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF).

Sus intereses de investigación incluyen sistemas de

alumbrado público, eficiencia energética, calidad de la

energía y redes inteligentes.

112

Edición No. 22, Issue II, Enero 2026

Alan Lopes Pombo. - Nació en

Magé, Río de Janeiro, Brasil, es

Técnico en Electrónica e Ingeniero

Electricista, con posgrado en

Ingeniería de Control y

Automatización Industrial. Es

Magíster en Ingeniería Eléctrica y

Telecomunicaciones y Doctorando

en Ingeniería Eléctrica y Telecomunicaciones en el

PPGEET-UFF. Es funcionario del Instituto de Física de

la Universidad Federal Fluminense (UFF), donde actúa

como Metrologista e Ingeniero Desarrollador de

Sistemas de Ensayo en el Laboratorio de Luminotecnia

(LABLUX-UFF), desempeñándose en la interpretación

de normas técnicas, definición de metodologías de

ensayo, desarrollo de sistemas experimentales y

expansión de los alcances de actuación y acreditación del

laboratorio. Sus áreas de actuación e investigación

incluyen el desarrollo de soluciones técnicas

multidisciplinarias aplicadas a campos como

Luminotecnia, Calidad de Energía, Sistemas

Fotovoltaicos, Microondas, Altas Energías, Plasma y

Espectroscopía Atómica. Actúa además como Analista

de Normas Técnicas, consultor en desarrollo tecnológico

y participa en Grupos de Trabajo junto al INMETRO,

contribuyendo a la revisión normativa y a la elaboración

de Análisis de Impacto Regulatorio (AIR).

Carlos Henriques Ventura do

Rosário Oliveira. - Nació en Río

de Janeiro, Brasil, en 1958. Recibió

su título de Ingeniero Eléctrico en

la Universidad Federal Fluminense

(UFF) en 1983; Especialización en

Servicios de Telecomunicaciones

en la UFF en 2002; y su título de

Maestro en Sistemas de Gestión en la Universidad

Federal Fluminense, en Niterói, Brasil, en 2004. Se

desempeña como profesor de la Universidad Federal

Fluminense y sus campos de investigación están

relacionados con la automatización y la luminotecnia.

Eduardo Lourenco de Sousa.-

Nació en Río de Janeiro, Brasil, el

19 de noviembre de 1996, es

Ingeniero Electricista, Máster y

doctorando en Ingeniería Eléctrica

por la Universidad Federal

Fluminense, con investigación de

maestría orientada a la

certificación de equipos de

iluminación, con énfasis en

seguridad, eficiencia y compatibilidad electromagnética,

actuando profesionalmente en el mantenimiento de

sistemas eléctricos de media y alta tensión en los sectores

industrial y offshore, además de desarrollar actividades

técnicas y académicas relacionadas con la ingeniería

eléctrica en el doctorado.

Marcio Zamboti Fortes. - Nació

en Volta Redonda, Brasil en 1969.

Recibió su título de Ingeniero

Eléctrico de la Escola de

Engenharia de Vassouras en 1991;

de Master en Ingeniería Energética

de la Universidade Federal de

Itajuba en 2000; y su título de

Doctor en Ingeniería Eléctra de la Universidade de São

Paulo. Sus campos de investigación están relacionados

con Eficiencia energética, calidad energética, fuentes

renovables y gestión/mantenimiento de sistemas

industriales.

Rafael Ayres Soares. - Nació en

Rio de Janeiro, Brasil en 1991.

Recibió su título de Ingeniero

Eléctrico por la Universidade

Federal Fluminense (UFF) en

2020; Es Magíster en Ingeniería

Eléctrica y en el PPGEET-UFF

(2025).Sus campos de

investigación están relacionados con el Sistemas

Fotovoltaicos y los aspectos de instalación, regulación e

impacto en la red eléctrica de estos sistemas, calidad de

energía e luminotecnia.

113