60W incandescent lamp alternatives found in Brazilian market

The first incandescent lamp was made available in the world market 130 years ago and today it is one of the most used in Brazilian residences. Nevertheless, its luminous efficacy is much lower than that of the other technologies. Moreover, the major concern with efficiency in lighting has resulted in the phase-out of the older technology in many countries. Brazil is following this global trend establishing limits of energy efficiency for light bulbs sold in the market, thereby prohibiting the production and importing of incandescent lamps. This gradual ban has been occurring since 2010. In July of the current year, it was the turn of the 60W bulb, the most used for interior lighting. This paper aims to analyze the photometrical and electrical characteristics of the possible alternatives to this lighting source common found in the Brazilian market, providing additional information to consumer selection and decision.