Optical member and organic electroluminescent display device

Abstract

The present invention provides: an optical member in which when light is incident from an oblique direction, reflection of the light is suppressed, and which has excellent transmittance in a front direction; and an organic EL display device. An optical member according to the present invention comprises a light absorption anisotropic layer, a first retardation layer, a second retardation layer, and a light reflection layer in this order. The angle formed by the transmittance central axis of the light absorption anisotropic layer and the normal direction of the surface of the light absorption anisotropic layer is 0-45°. The first retardation layer contains a twist-aligned liquid crystal compound having the thickness direction of the first retardation layer as a helical axis, the second retardation layer is a C plate, and no absorption layer comprising an absorption axis is provided between the second retardation layer and the light reflection layer.

Description

Optical components, organic electroluminescent display devices

[0001] The present invention relates to optical components and organic electroluminescent display devices.

[0002] Conventionally, circular polarizers have been used to suppress adverse effects caused by ambient light reflection in organic electroluminescent (EL) display devices. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an embodiment in which a circular polarizer including a polarizing film (polarizer) and a phase difference layer is used.

[0003] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-003520

[0004] On the other hand, in conventional embodiments using circular polarizers, such as those described in Patent Document 1, while reflection when light is incident from an oblique direction can be suppressed, the transmittance in the front direction of the organic EL display device was poor. Therefore, it was not possible to sufficiently achieve both suppression of reflection when light is incident from an oblique direction and excellent transmittance in the front direction.

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, the present invention aims to provide an optical element that suppresses the reflection of light when light is incident from an oblique direction and has excellent transmittance in the front direction. The present invention also aims to provide an organic EL display device.

[0006] The inventors have found that the above problems can be solved by the following configuration.

[0007] (1) An optical member having a light-absorbing anisotropic layer, a first phase difference layer, a second phase difference layer, and a light-reflecting layer in this order, wherein the angle between the transmittance central axis of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer and the normal direction of the surface of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer is 0 to 45°, the first phase difference layer contains a liquid crystal compound that is twisted in orientation with the thickness direction of the first phase difference layer as the helical axis, the second phase difference layer is a C plate, and there is no absorption layer having an absorption axis between the second phase difference layer and the light-reflecting layer. (2) An optical member having a light-absorbing anisotropic layer, a third phase difference layer, a fourth phase difference layer, and a light-reflecting layer in this order, wherein the angle between the transmittance center axis of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer and the normal direction of the surface of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer is 0 to 45°, the angle between the in-plane slow axis of the third phase difference layer and the in-plane slow axis of the fourth phase difference layer is 35 to 55°, both the third phase difference layer and the fourth phase difference layer are λ / 4 layers, and there is no absorption layer having an absorption axis between the fourth phase difference layer and the light-reflecting layer. (3) An optical member having a light-absorbing anisotropic layer, a fifth phase difference layer, and a light-reflecting layer in this order, wherein the angle between the transmittance central axis of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer and the normal direction of the surface of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer is 0 to 45°, the fifth phase difference layer contains a liquid crystal compound that is torsion-oriented with the thickness direction of the fifth phase difference layer as the helical axis, and there is no absorption layer having an absorption axis between the fifth phase difference layer and the light-reflecting layer. (4) The optical member according to (1), wherein the torsion angle of the liquid crystal compound is 100 to 325°. (5) The optical member according to (1) or (4), wherein the product Δnd of the refractive index anisotropy Δn of the first phase difference layer and the thickness d of the first phase difference layer is 300 to 650 nm. (6) The optical element according to (1), (4), or (5), wherein the retardation in the thickness direction of the C plate at a wavelength of 550 nm is -600 to -300 nm, or 100 to 400 nm. (7) The optical element according to (3), wherein the torsion angle of the liquid crystal compound is 230 to 325°. (8) The optical element according to (3) or (7), wherein the product Δnd of the refractive index anisotropy Δn of the fifth phase difference layer and the thickness d of the fifth phase difference layer is 500 to 600 nm. (9) An organic electroluminescent display device having the optical element according to any one of (1) to (8).

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an optical element that suppresses the reflection of light when light is incident from an oblique direction and has excellent transmittance in the front direction. Furthermore, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an organic EL display device.

[0009] This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of the optical member of the present invention. This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of the optical member of the present invention. This is a schematic cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of the optical member of the present invention.

[0010] The present invention will now be described in detail. The following descriptions of constituent elements may be based on typical embodiments of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to such embodiments.

[0011] The following is a definition of each term used in this specification. In this specification, a numerical range indicated by "~" means a range that includes the numbers indicated before and after "~" as the lower and upper limits, respectively.

[0012] Furthermore, in this specification, each component may be represented by a single substance or by a combination of two or more substances. When two or more substances are used in combination for each component, the content of that component refers to the total content of the combined substances unless otherwise specified.

[0013] Furthermore, in this specification, "(meth)acrylate" refers to "acrylate" or "methacrylate," "(meth)acrylic" refers to "acrylic" or "methacrylic," and "(meth)acryloyl" refers to "acryloyl" or "methacryloyl."

[0014] Furthermore, in this specification, Re(λ) and Rth(λ) represent the in-plane retardation and thickness retardation at wavelength λ, respectively. Unless otherwise specified, wavelength λ is 550 nm. In this invention, Re(λ) and Rth(λ) are values ​​measured at wavelength λ using an AxoScan OPMF-2 (manufactured by Axometrics). By inputting the average refractive index ((nx + ny + nz) / 3) and film thickness (d) into the AxoScan, the following can be calculated in the in-plane retardation axis direction (°): Re(λ) = R0(λ) Rth(λ) = ((nx + ny) / 2 - nz) × d Note that R0(λ) is displayed as a numerical value calculated by the AxoScan OPMF-2, but it means Re(λ).

[0015] In this specification, the transmittance center axis refers to the direction that exhibits the highest transmittance when the transmittance is measured while varying the tilt angle (polar angle) and tilt direction (azimuth angle) of the surface (principal surface) of the optical absorption anisotropy layer with respect to the normal direction. Specifically, the Müller matrix at a wavelength of 550 nm is measured using an AxoScan OPMF-2 (manufactured by Axometrics). More specifically, during the measurement, the azimuth angle at which the transmittance center axis is tilted is first found, and then, within the plane containing the normal direction of the optical absorption anisotropy layer surface along that azimuth angle (a plane containing the transmittance center axis and perpendicular to the layer surface), the Müller matrix at a wavelength of 550 nm is measured while changing the polar angle, which is the angle of the optical absorption anisotropy layer surface with respect to the normal direction, from -70 to 70° in 1° increments, and the transmittance of the optical absorption anisotropy layer is derived. As a result, the direction with the highest transmittance is defined as the transmittance center axis. However, if the transmittance center axis is parallel to the normal direction of the layer surface of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer, the azimuth angle used to change the polar angle may be in any direction. Note that the transmittance center axis refers to the direction of the absorption axis (the long axis direction of the molecule) of the dichroic substance contained in the light-absorbing anisotropic layer.

[0016] Furthermore, in this specification, the refractive indices nx, ny, and nz are measured using an Abbe refractometer (NAR-4T, manufactured by Atago Corporation) with a sodium lamp (λ = 589 nm) as the light source. Wavelength dependence can be measured using a multi-wavelength Abbe refractometer DR-M2 (manufactured by Atago Corporation) in combination with an interference filter. Values ​​from the Polymer Handbook (JOHN WILEY & SONS, INC.) and catalogs of various optical films can also be used. Examples of average refractive index values ​​for major optical films are given below: cellulose acylate (1.48), cycloolefin polymer (1.52), polycarbonate (1.59), polymethyl methacrylate (1.49), and polystyrene (1.59).

[0017] In this specification, a C plate is defined as follows: There are two types of C plates: positive C plates and negative C plates. A positive C plate satisfies the relationship in equation (C1), and a negative C plate satisfies the relationship in equation (C2). Note that a positive C plate shows a negative value for Rth, and a negative C plate shows a positive value for Rth. Equation (C1) nz > nx ≈ ny Equation (C2) nz < nx ≈ ny Note that the above "≈" includes not only cases where the two are completely identical, but also cases where the two are substantially identical. "Substantially identical" means, for example, that (nx - ny) × d (where d is the thickness of the film) is 0 to 10 nm, preferably 0 to 5 nm, which is included in "nx ≈ ny".

[0018] A key feature of the optical components of the present invention (the first to third embodiments described later) is that they have a predetermined light absorption anisotropy layer and a predetermined phase difference layer. Each embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0019] <<First Embodiment>> Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the first embodiment of the optical member of the present invention. The optical member 10A has a light-absorbing anisotropic layer 12, a first phase difference layer 16, a second phase difference layer 18, and a light-reflecting layer 14 in this order. As shown by the white arrows in Figure 1, when light is incident on the optical member 10A from an oblique direction, the incident light is partially absorbed by the light-absorbing anisotropic layer 12, whose transmittance center axis is arranged in a predetermined direction. Taking the case where the transmittance center axis of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer 12 is parallel in the thickness direction as an example, the light transmitted through the light-absorbing anisotropic layer 12 becomes s-polarized due to the absorption characteristics of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer 12. This s-polarized light is converted into circularly polarized light by the first phase difference layer 16 and the second phase difference layer 18. Subsequently, when the circularly polarized light is reflected by the light-reflecting layer 14, it becomes circularly polarized light with the rotation direction reversed. Furthermore, this circularly polarized light with the direction of rotation reversed is converted to p-polarized light by the first phase difference layer 16 and the second phase difference layer 18, and then the p-polarized light is absorbed by the light absorption anisotropy layer 12. In other words, light incident from an oblique direction is ultimately absorbed by the light absorption anisotropy layer 12, and external light reflection is suppressed. Also, in the light absorption anisotropy layer 12, the angle between the transmittance center axis of the light absorption anisotropy layer 12 and the normal direction of the light absorption anisotropy layer 12 is 0 to 45°, so light incident from the front of the light absorption anisotropy layer 12 is less likely to be absorbed. In other words, as shown by the black arrow in Figure 1, light incident from the front of the light absorption anisotropy layer 12 is easily transmitted, resulting in excellent transmittance in the front direction. Note that although the layers are arranged adjacent to each other in Figure 1, the configuration is not limited to this, and other members may be included between the layers. The following describes each member in detail.

[0020] <Light Absorption Anisotropic Layer> In the light absorption anisotropic layer, the angle between the transmittance center axis of the light absorption anisotropic layer and the normal direction of the surface of the light absorption anisotropic layer (normal direction of the main surface of the light absorption anisotropic layer) is 0 to 45°, and at least one of the following effects is obtained: the reflection of light is further suppressed when light is incident from an oblique direction, and the transmittance in the front direction is improved (hereinafter also simply referred to as "the effect of the present invention is improved"). Preferably, the angle is 0 to 35°, more preferably 0 to 25°, even more preferably 0 to 10°, and particularly preferably 0 to 5°. The light absorption anisotropic layer preferably contains a dichroic substance, more preferably contains a liquid crystal compound together with the dichroic substance, and even more preferably is a layer in which the orientation state of the liquid crystal compound and the dichroic substance is fixed. The dichroic substance and liquid crystal compound that are preferably included in the light absorption anisotropic layer will be described below.

[0021] (Dichroic substances) Dichroic substances are dyes whose absorbance differs depending on the direction. Dichroic substances may or may not exhibit liquid crystalline properties.

[0022] Dichroic materials are not particularly limited and include visible light absorbing materials (dichroic dyes), luminescent materials (fluorescent materials, phosphorescent materials), ultraviolet absorbing materials, infrared absorbing materials, nonlinear optical materials, carbon nanotubes, and inorganic materials (e.g., quantum rods). Conventionally known dichroic materials (dichroic dyes) can be used. Specifically, for example, paragraphs

[0067] to

[0071] of JP 2013-228706, paragraphs

[0008] to

[0026] of JP 2013-227532, paragraphs

[0008] to

[0015] of JP 2013-209367, paragraphs

[0045] to

[0058] of JP 2013-14883, paragraphs

[0012] to

[0029] of JP 2013-109090, paragraphs

[0009] to

[0017] of JP 2013-101328, JP Paragraphs

[0051] to

[0065] of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2013-037353, paragraphs

[0049] to

[0073] of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-063387, paragraphs

[0016] to

[0018] of Japanese Patent Publication No. Hei 11-305036, paragraphs

[0009] to

[0011] of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2001-133630, paragraphs

[0030] to

[0169] of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-215337, paragraphs

[0021] to

[0075] of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2010-106242, and Japanese Patent Publication No. 2010-215846 Paragraphs

[0011] to

[0025] of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-048311, paragraphs

[0017] to

[0069] of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-213610, paragraphs

[0013] to

[0133] of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-237513, paragraphs

[0074] to

[0246] of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2011-237513, paragraphs

[0005] to

[0051] of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2016-006502, paragraphs

[0014] to

[0032] of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2018-053167, and paragraphs

[0014] to

[0033] of Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-011716. Paragraphs, paragraphs

[0005] to

[0041] of International Publication No. 2016 / 060173, paragraphs

[0008] to

[0062] of International Publication No. 2016 / 136561, paragraphs

[0014] to

[0033] of International Publication No. 2017 / 154835, paragraphs

[0014] to

[0033] of International Publication No. 2017 / 154695, paragraphs

[0013] to

[0037] of International Publication No. 2017 / 195833, paragraphs

[0014] to

[0034] of International Publication No. 2018 / 164252,Examples include paragraphs

[0021] to

[0030] of International Publication No. 2018 / 186503, paragraphs

[0043] to

[0063] of International Publication No. 2019 / 189345, paragraphs

[0043] to

[0085] of International Publication No. 2019 / 225468, paragraphs

[0050] to

[0074] of International Publication No. 2020 / 004106, and paragraphs

[0015] to

[0038] of International Publication No. 2021 / 044843.

[0023] Dichroic azo dye compounds are preferred as the dichroic substance. Dichroic azo dye compounds refer to azo dye compounds whose absorbance differs depending on the direction. Dichroic azo dye compounds may or may not exhibit liquid crystalline properties. If a dichroic azo dye compound exhibits liquid crystalline properties, it may exhibit either nematic or smectic properties. The temperature range in which the liquid crystalline phase is exhibited is preferably room temperature (about 20 to 28°C) to 300°C, and more preferably 50 to 200°C from the viewpoint of handling and manufacturing suitability.

[0024] From the standpoint of color adjustment, it is preferable to use at least one dye compound (first dichroic azo dye compound) having a maximum absorption wavelength in the range of 560 to 700 nm, and at least one dye compound (second dichroic azo dye compound) having a maximum absorption wavelength in the range of 455 nm or more and less than 560 nm.

[0025] In the present invention, three or more dichroic azo dye compounds may be used in combination. For example, from the viewpoint of making the light-absorbing anisotropic layer closer to black, it is preferable to use a first dichroic azo dye compound, a second dichroic azo dye compound, and at least one dye compound (third dichroic azo dye compound) having a maximum absorption wavelength in the range of 380 nm to less than 455 nm.

[0026] The dichroic azo dye compound preferably has a crosslinking group. Examples of crosslinking groups include (meth)acryloyl group, epoxy group, oxetanyl group, and styryl group, with (meth)acryloyl group being preferred. The light-absorbing anisotropic layer may contain a cured product (crosslinked product) of a dichroic dye having a crosslinking group (particularly a dichroic dye compound having a crosslinking group).

[0027] The content of the dichroic substance is not particularly limited, but because it increases the degree of orientation of the formed light-absorbing anisotropic layer, it is preferably 3% by mass or more, more preferably 8% by mass or more, even more preferably 10% by mass or more, and particularly preferably 10 to 30% by mass, relative to the total mass of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer. The dichroic substance may be used alone or in combination of two or more types. When two or more dichroic substances are used, it is preferable that their total amount is within the above range.

[0028] (Liquid Crystal Compound) The light-absorbing anisotropic layer preferably contains a liquid crystal compound. This allows for the orientation of dichroic substances to a higher degree of orientation while suppressing the precipitation of dichroic substances. As the liquid crystal compound, either a polymer liquid crystal compound or a low-molecular-weight liquid crystal compound can be used, and a polymer liquid crystal compound is preferred because it can achieve a high degree of orientation. In addition, a combination of polymer liquid crystal compounds and low-molecular-weight liquid crystal compounds may be used as the liquid crystal compound. Here, "polymer liquid crystal compound" refers to a liquid crystal compound that has repeating units in its chemical structure. Also, "low-molecular-weight liquid crystal compound" refers to a liquid crystal compound that does not have repeating units in its chemical structure. Examples of polymer liquid crystal compounds include the thermotropic liquid crystal polymer described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2011-237513 and the polymer liquid crystal compounds described in paragraphs

[0012] to

[0042] of International Publication No. 2018 / 199096. Examples of low-molecular-weight liquid crystal compounds include the liquid crystal compounds described in paragraphs

[0072] to

[0088] of Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2013-228706, and among these, liquid crystal compounds exhibiting smectic properties are preferred.

[0029] The liquid crystal compound may be immobilized in the light-absorbing anisotropic layer. To immobilize the liquid crystal compound in the light-absorbing anisotropic layer, for example, one method is to orient the liquid crystal compound using a liquid crystal compound having a polymerizable group, and then polymerize the liquid crystal compound to form the light-absorbing anisotropic layer. In this specification, the "immobilized" state is a state in which the orientation of the liquid crystal compound is maintained. Specifically, it is preferable that the layer is not fluid, and that the immobilized orientation can be stably maintained without causing changes in the orientation form due to an external field or external force, usually in a temperature range of 0 to 50°C, and under more severe conditions, in a temperature range of -30 to 70°C. The polymerizable group is not particularly limited, but a polymerizable group capable of radical polymerization or cationic polymerization is preferred. Examples of radical polymerizable groups include known radical polymerizable groups, and acryloyl groups or methacryloyl groups are preferred. Acryloyl groups are generally known to polymerize quickly, and are therefore preferred from the viewpoint of improving productivity. However, methacryloyl groups can also be used similarly as polymerizable groups for high birefringence liquid crystals. Examples of cationic polymerizable groups include known cationic polymerizable groups such as alicyclic ether groups, cyclic acetal groups, cyclic lactone groups, cyclic thioether groups, spiroorthoester groups, and vinyloxy groups. Among these, alicyclic ether groups or vinyloxy groups are preferred, and epoxy groups, oxetanyl groups, or vinyloxy groups are more preferred.

[0030] The content of the liquid crystal compound is not particularly limited, but it is preferably 70% by mass or more, and more preferably 90% by mass or more, relative to the total mass of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer, because this increases the degree of orientation of the formed light-absorbing anisotropic layer. There is no particular upper limit, but it is less than 100% by mass. The liquid crystal compound may be used alone or in combination of two or more types. When two or more liquid crystal compounds are used, it is preferable that their total amount is within the above range.

[0031] (Other components) The light-absorbing anisotropic layer may contain components other than those described above. Examples of other components include vertical alignment agents and leveling agents.

[0032] Examples of the vertical alignment agent include a boronic acid compound and an onium salt. As the boronic acid compound, a compound represented by the formula (A) is preferable.

[0033] Formula (A)

[0034] In formula (A), R ,

[0038] , ,

[0037] , ２ , １ , １ , １ , ２ , － , , ,

[0036] and R ２ each independently represents a hydrogen atom, a substituted or unsubstituted aliphatic hydrocarbon group, a substituted or unsubstituted aryl group, or a substituted or unsubstituted heterocyclic group. R ３ represents a substituent containing a (meth)acrylic group. Specific examples of the boronic acid compound include the boronic acid compounds represented by the general formula (I) described in paragraphs

[0023] to

[0032] of JP-A-2008-225281.

[0035] As the onium salt, a compound represented by the formula (B) is preferable.

[0036] Formula (B) [[ID=二十一]] [[ID=二十二]]

[0037] [[ID=二十三]]In formula (B), ring A represents a quaternary ammonium ion composed of a nitrogen-containing heterocyclic ring. X [[ID=二十四]] － [[ID=二十五]]represents an anion. L [[ID=二十六]]<0000 \ 005>[[ID=二十七]]represents a divalent linking group. L [[ID=二十八]] ２ [[ID=二十九]]represents a single bond or a divalent linking group. Y [[ID=三十]] １ [[ID=三十一]]represents a divalent linking group having a 5- or 6-membered ring as a partial structure. Z represents a divalent linking group having an alkylene group of 2 to 20 as a partial structure. P [[ID=三十二]] １ [[ID=三十三]]and P​​​​When the light absorption anisotropic layer contains a vertical alignment agent, the content of the vertical alignment agent is preferably 0.1 to 400% by mass, more preferably 0.5 to 350% by mass, based on the total mass of the liquid crystal compound. The vertical alignment agent may be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds. When two or more kinds of vertical alignment agents are used, the total amount thereof is preferably within the above range.

[0039] The light absorption anisotropic layer may contain a leveling agent. When the composition for forming a light absorption anisotropic layer (light absorption anisotropic layer) described later contains a leveling agent, it suppresses the planar roughness due to the drying wind applied to the surface of the light absorption anisotropic layer, and the dichroic substance is more uniformly oriented. The leveling agent is not particularly limited, and a leveling agent containing a fluorine atom (fluorine-based leveling agent) or a leveling agent containing a silicon atom (silicon-based leveling agent) is preferable.

[0040] Examples of the fluorine-based leveling agent include fatty acid esters of polyvalent carboxylic acids in which a part of the fatty acid is substituted with a fluoroalkyl group, and polyacrylates having a fluoro substituent.

[0041] Specific examples of the leveling agent include the compounds exemplified in paragraphs

[0046] to

[0052] of JP-A-2004-331812 and the compounds described in paragraphs

[0038] to

[0052] of JP-A-2008-257205.

[0042] When the light absorption anisotropic layer contains a liquid crystal compound and a leveling agent, the content of the leveling agent is preferably 0.001 to 10% by mass, more preferably 0.01 to 5% by mass, based on the total mass of the liquid crystal compound. The leveling agent may be used alone or in combination of two or more kinds. When two or more kinds of leveling agents are used, the total amount thereof is preferably within the above range.

[0043] (Composition for forming light absorption anisotropic layer) The light absorption anisotropic layer is preferably formed using a composition for forming a light absorption anisotropic layer containing a dichroic substance and a liquid crystal compound. The composition for forming a light absorption anisotropic layer preferably contains a solvent and the like described later in addition to the dichroic substance and the liquid crystal compound, and may further contain the above-mentioned other components.

[0044] Examples of dichroic substances included in the light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition include dichroic substances that can be contained in the light-absorbing anisotropic layer. Preferably, the content of dichroic substances relative to the total solid content mass of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition is the same as the content of dichroic substances relative to the total mass of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer. Here, "total solid content in the light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition" refers to the components excluding the solvent, and specific examples of solid content include dichroic substances, liquid crystal compounds, and the other components mentioned above.

[0045] The liquid crystal compounds and other components that may be included in the light-absorbing anisotropic layer forming composition are the same as the liquid crystal compounds and other components that may be included in the light-absorbing anisotropic layer. Preferably, the content of the liquid crystal compounds and other components relative to the total solid content mass of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer forming composition is the same as the content of the liquid crystal compounds and other components relative to the total mass of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer.

[0046] Compositions for forming a light-absorbing anisotropic layer preferably contain a solvent for ease of use. Examples of solvents include organic solvents such as ketones, ethers, aliphatic hydrocarbons, alicyclic hydrocarbons, aromatic hydrocarbons, carbon halides, esters, alcohols, cellosolves, cellosolve acetates, sulfoxides, amides, and heterocyclic compounds, as well as water. These solvents may be used individually or in combination of two or more. Of these solvents, organic solvents are preferred, and carbon halides or ketones are more preferred.

[0047] If the light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition contains a solvent, the solvent content is preferably 80 to 99% by mass, more preferably 83 to 97% by mass, and even more preferably 85 to 95% by mass, based on the total mass of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition.

[0048] The light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition may contain a polymerization initiator. The polymerization initiator is not particularly limited, but it is preferably a photosensitive compound, i.e., a photopolymerization initiator. Commercially available photopolymerization initiators can also be used, including Irgacure 184, Irgacure 907, Irgacure 369, Irgacure 651, Irgacure 819, Irgacure OXE-01, and Irgacure OXE-02 from BASF. The polymerization initiator may be used alone or in combination of two or more. When the light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition contains a polymerization initiator, the content of the polymerization initiator is preferably 0.01 to 30% by mass, and more preferably 0.1 to 15% by mass, relative to the total solid content of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition.

[0049] (Method for Manufacturing a Light-Absorbing Anisotropic Layer) The method for manufacturing a light-absorbing anisotropic layer is not particularly limited, but a method comprising the steps of forming a coating film by applying a light-absorbing anisotropic layer composition containing a dichroic substance and a liquid crystal compound onto an alignment film (hereinafter also referred to as the "coating film formation step") and aligning the liquid crystal components contained in the above coating film (hereinafter also referred to as the "alignment step") in this order (hereinafter also referred to as the "this manufacturing method") is preferred because it allows for a higher degree of orientation of the dichroic substance. Note that the liquid crystal components include not only the liquid crystal compounds mentioned above, but also dichroic substances that have liquid crystal properties. The following describes each step.

[0050] The coating film formation step is a step of forming a coating film by coating the above-mentioned light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition onto the orientation film. By using the light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition containing the above-mentioned solvent, or by using the light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition in a liquid state such as a molten liquid by heating or the like, it becomes easier to coat the light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition onto the orientation film. Known methods for coating the light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition include roll coating, gravure printing, spin coating, wire bar coating, extrusion coating, direct gravure coating, reverse gravure coating, die coating, spray, and inkjet methods.

[0051] The alignment film can be any film that aligns liquid crystal components that may be included in the light-absorbing anisotropic layer forming composition. It can be formed by means such as rubbing treatment of the film surface with an organic compound (preferably a polymer), oblique deposition of an inorganic compound, formation of a layer having microgrooves, or accumulation of an organic compound (e.g., ω-tricosanoic acid, dioctadecylmethylammonium chloride, methyl stearylate) by the Langmuir-Bludget method (LB film). Furthermore, alignment films that exhibit alignment function by applying an electric field, a magnetic field, or light irradiation are also known. Among these, in the present invention, an alignment film of a polyvinyl alcohol-based resin is preferred, and from the viewpoint of uniformity of alignment, a photo-alignment film formed by light irradiation is also preferred.

[0052] As the photo-alignment film, a photo-alignment film containing azobenzene dye or polyvinyl cinnamate is used. By irradiating the photo-alignment film with ultraviolet light from an oblique direction at an angle to the normal direction of the photo-alignment film, an anisotropy with a gradient relative to the normal direction of the photo-alignment film is generated, and by aligning a light-absorbing anisotropy layer on top of this, the dichroic substances in the light-absorbing anisotropy layer can be aligned. Alternatively, a liquid crystal layer in which liquid crystal compounds are hybrid-oriented can also be used as the alignment film.

[0053] The orientation step is a step in which the liquid crystal components (particularly dichroic substances) contained in the coated film are oriented. In the orientation step, it is thought that the dichroic substances are oriented along the liquid crystal compounds oriented by the orientation film. The orientation step may include a drying process. The drying process can remove components such as solvents from the coated film. The drying process may be carried out by leaving the coated film at room temperature for a predetermined time (e.g., natural drying), or by heating and / or blowing air.

[0054] The orientation step preferably includes a heat treatment. This further orients the dichroic substances contained in the coating film, resulting in a higher degree of orientation of the dichroic substances. From the viewpoint of manufacturing suitability, the heat treatment is preferably at 10 to 250°C, and more preferably at 25 to 190°C. The heating time is preferably at 1 to 300 seconds, and more preferably at 1 to 60 seconds.

[0055] The orientation step may include a cooling step performed after the heat treatment. The cooling step is a process of cooling the heated coating film to room temperature (20-25°C). This further fixes the orientation of the dichroic substances contained in the coating film, and increases the degree of orientation of the dichroic substances. The cooling means is not particularly limited and can be carried out by known methods. The light-absorbing anisotropic layer of the present invention can be obtained by the above steps.

[0056] The present manufacturing method may include a step of curing the light-absorbing anisotropic layer after the orientation step (hereinafter also referred to as the "curing step"). The curing step is carried out, for example, by heating and / or light irradiation (exposure). Among these, it is preferable that the curing step be carried out by light irradiation. Various light sources can be used for curing, such as infrared light, visible light, or ultraviolet light, but ultraviolet light is preferred. Furthermore, ultraviolet light may be irradiated while heating during curing, or ultraviolet light may be irradiated through a filter that transmits only specific wavelengths. In addition, exposure may be carried out under a nitrogen atmosphere. When the curing of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer proceeds by radical polymerization, exposure under a nitrogen atmosphere is preferable because it reduces inhibition of polymerization by oxygen.

[0057] The thickness of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer is not particularly limited, but 0.5 to 7 μm is preferred, and 1.0 to 3 μm is more preferred, in terms of achieving superior effects of the present invention.

[0058] <First Phase Difference Layer> The first phase difference layer contains a liquid crystal compound that is torsion-oriented with the thickness direction of the first phase difference layer as the helical axis. The torsion orientation with the thickness direction as the helical axis as described above is also called "twist orientation". Furthermore, a layer containing a twist-oriented liquid crystal compound is also called a "twist liquid crystal layer". The first phase difference layer is preferably a layer in which the liquid crystal compound is fixed. The definition of "fixed" is as described above.

[0059] Liquid crystal compounds in the first phase difference layer can generally be classified into rod-shaped and disc-shaped types based on their shape. Furthermore, each of these types can be further divided into low-molecular-weight and high-molecular-weight types. Specific examples of liquid crystal compounds are the same as those described in the section on the light-absorbing anisotropy layer, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0060] Here, a method for forming a first phase difference layer containing a torsion-oriented liquid crystal compound includes, for example, a method using a liquid crystal composition containing a liquid crystal compound (e.g., a liquid crystal compound having polymerizable groups) and a chiral agent. More specifically, a method is to use a liquid crystal composition containing a liquid crystal compound having polymerizable groups and a chiral agent to orient the liquid crystal compound, and then polymerize the liquid crystal compound to form the first phase difference layer. A chiral agent refers to a compound that can induce torsion orientation of a liquid crystal compound. The chiral agent's ability to induce torsion orientation (helical induced force) may or may not change upon light irradiation. Furthermore, the direction of the helical induced force is not particularly limited. Furthermore, the chiral agent may or may not exhibit liquid crystalline properties.

[0061] Chiral agents whose helical induced force changes upon light irradiation (photoreactive chiral agents) include compounds having a chiral moiety and a photoreactive moiety that undergoes structural changes upon light irradiation. For example, compounds that significantly change the torsional force of a liquid crystal compound depending on the amount of irradiation are also included. Examples of photoreactive moieties that undergo structural changes upon light irradiation include photochromic compounds (Kingo Uchida, Masahiro Irie, Chemical Industry, vol. 64, 640p, 1999; Kingo Uchida, Masahiro Irie, Fine Chemical, vol. 28(9), 15p, 1999). The above structural changes refer to decomposition, addition reactions, isomerization, racemization, [2+2] photocyclization, and dimerization reactions that occur upon light irradiation of the photoreactive moiety, and these structural changes may be irreversible. As for the chiral moiety, for example, the asymmetric carbon described in Hiroyuki Nodaira, Chemical Review, No. 22 Liquid Crystal Chemistry, 73p: 1994 corresponds to this. The above chiral agents may be used in combination of two or more types, and photoreactive chiral agents and non-photoreactive chiral agents may also be used in combination.

[0062] The torsion angle of the liquid crystal compound in the first phase difference layer is not particularly limited, but in terms of achieving superior effects of the present invention, 100 to 325° is preferred, 130 to 325° is more preferred, 220 to 325° is even more preferred, and 300 to 325° is particularly preferred. The torsion angle can be adjusted by the type of chiral agent contained in the liquid crystal composition and the amount of the chiral agent.

[0063] Furthermore, in the first phase difference layer, the product Δnd of the refractive index anisotropy Δn and the thickness d is not particularly limited, but 300 to 650 nm is preferred, 450 to 650 nm is more preferred, and 500 to 600 nm is even more preferred in terms of superior effects of the present invention. The value of Δnd can be adjusted by the type of liquid crystal compound used to form the first phase difference layer and the thickness of the first phase difference layer.

[0064] The thickness of the first phase difference layer is preferably 0.1 to 20 μm, more preferably 0.5 to 15 μm, and even more preferably 1 to 10 μm.

[0065] <Second Phase Difference Layer> The second phase difference layer is a C plate. The second phase difference layer may be a positive C plate or a negative C plate, with a negative C plate being preferred.

[0066] The retardation in the thickness direction of the second phase difference layer (C plate) at a wavelength of 550 nm is not particularly limited, but -600 to -300 nm or 100 to 400 nm is preferred, and -600 to -500 nm or 150 to 250 nm is more preferred in terms of superior effects of the present invention.

[0067] The material constituting the second phase difference layer (C plate) is not particularly limited and may be a layer formed using a liquid crystal compound or a resin film. In particular, the second phase difference layer is preferably a layer in which a liquid crystal compound is fixed. When the second phase difference layer (C plate) is a layer formed using a liquid crystal compound, the liquid crystal compound can generally be classified into rod-shaped and disc-shaped types based on its shape. Furthermore, each of these can be divided into low-molecular-weight and high-molecular-weight types. Specific examples of liquid crystal compounds are the same as those described in the section on the light-absorbing anisotropy layer, so their explanation is omitted. The liquid crystal compound may be fixed in the second phase difference layer. To fix the liquid crystal compound in the second phase difference layer, for example, a method can be used in which the liquid crystal compound is oriented using a liquid crystal compound having polymerizable groups, and then the liquid crystal compound is polymerized to form the second phase difference layer. The definition of "fixed" is as described above. When the second phase difference layer (C plate) is a negative C plate, for example, a layer containing a horizontally oriented disc-shaped liquid crystal compound can be used as the negative C plate.

[0068] The thickness of the second phase difference layer is preferably 0.1 to 20 μm, more preferably 0.5 to 15 μm, and even more preferably 1 to 10 μm.

[0069] <Light-Reflecting Layer> The light-reflecting layer is a layer that reflects light incident on an optical component. The light-reflecting layer may include, for example, electrodes in an organic EL display element. Typically, an organic EL display element has a structure in which an organic light-emitting material layer is sandwiched between a pair of electrodes facing each other. The electrodes included in the above structure in the organic EL display element may be the light-reflecting layer.

[0070] The light-reflecting layer can be formed from metals such as gold, silver, copper, iron, nickel, chromium, molybdenum, titanium, and aluminum, or alloys thereof.

[0071] The reflectance of the light-reflecting layer is not particularly limited, but is preferably 10% or more, and more preferably 25% or more. There is no particular upper limit, but is often 80% or less, and more often 60% or less. The above reflectance is defined as the Y value of the display system at observation conditions of 10° field of view and observation light source D65, using a spectrophotometer (Konica Minolta, CM-2022).

[0072] Furthermore, in the first embodiment of the optical member of the present invention, there is no absorption layer having an absorption axis between the second phase difference layer and the light reflection layer. The above absorption layer has an absorption axis in one direction. The absorption axis is the direction in which absorption is maximized, and the absorption is greatest in the direction in which the absorption axis is located. Therefore, the absorption layer is a layer with anisotropic absorption. An example of an absorption layer is an absorption layer having an absorption axis in the in-plane direction, such as a polarizing plate. Another example of an absorption layer is an absorption layer having an absorption axis that has an angle of 0 to 45° with respect to the normal direction of the surface of the layer, as in the light absorption anisotropy layer described above.

[0073] The following methods can be used to check for the presence or absence of an absorption axis. To check for the presence or absence of an absorption axis in the direction within the film plane, place the optical film for which you want to check for the presence or absence of an absorption axis on a surface light source, and then place a polarizing plate on top of the optical film. When the polarizing plate is rotated while maintaining a position parallel to the surface of the optical film, if the brightness of the surface light source viewed from the front changes, it can be determined that an absorption axis is present. In addition, to check for the presence or absence of an absorption axis in a direction other than parallel to the film plane, place the optical film for which you want to check for the presence or absence of an absorption axis on a surface light source, and then place a polarizing plate on top of the optical film. If the brightness viewed from a polarizing plate at

[0074] <Other Components> The first embodiment of the optical component of the present invention may have other components besides the components described above (light absorption anisotropy layer, first phase difference layer, second phase difference layer, light reflection layer).

[0075] (Support) The first embodiment of the optical member of the present invention may have a support. The type of support is not particularly limited, and known supports can be used. In particular, a transparent support is preferred. A transparent support refers to a support having a visible light transmittance of 60% or more, preferably 80% or more, and more preferably 90% or more.

[0076] Examples of supports include glass substrates and polymer films. Materials for the polymer film include cellulose polymers; acrylic polymers having acrylic acid ester polymers such as polymethyl methacrylate and lactone ring-containing polymers; thermoplastic norbornene polymers; polycarbonate polymers; polyester polymers such as polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene naphthalate; styrene polymers such as polystyrene and acrylonitrile styrene copolymers; polyolefin polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and ethylene-propylene copolymers; vinyl chloride polymers; amide polymers such as nylon and aromatic polyamides; imide polymers; sulfone polymers; polyethersulfone polymers; polyetheretherketone polymers; polyphenylene sulfide polymers; vinylidene chloride polymers; vinyl alcohol polymers; vinyl butyral polymers; arylate polymers; polyoxymethylene polymers; epoxy polymers; or polymers obtained by mixing these polymers. Furthermore, the support is preferably removable.

[0077] (Alignment Film) A first embodiment of the optical member of the present invention may have an alignment film. Specifically, examples of the alignment film include layers of polyvinyl alcohol and polyimide, which may or may not have been rubbing-treated; and photo-alignment films of polyvinyl cinnamate and azo dyes, which may or may not have been polarized exposure-treated. The thickness of the alignment film is preferably 0.01 to 10 μm, and more preferably 0.01 to 1 μm.

[0078] (Adhesive layer) The first embodiment of the optical member of the present invention may have an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer is preferably a transparent, optically isotropic adhesive similar to those used in ordinary image display devices, and is usually a pressure-sensitive adhesive.

[0079] The adhesive layer may contain appropriate additives such as crosslinking agents (e.g., isocyanate-based crosslinking agents and epoxy-based crosslinking agents), tackifiers (e.g., rosin derivative resins, polyterpene resins, petroleum resins, and oil-soluble phenolic resins), plasticizers, fillers, antioxidants, surfactants, UV absorbers, light stabilizers, and antioxidants.

[0080] (Adhesive layer) The first embodiment of the optical component of the present invention may have an adhesive layer. The adhesive layer exhibits adhesive properties through drying and reaction after bonding. Polyvinyl alcohol-based adhesives (PVA-based adhesives) exhibit adhesive properties upon drying, enabling bonding of materials.

[0081] Specific examples of curing adhesives that exhibit adhesive properties through reaction include active energy ray curing adhesives such as (meth)acrylate adhesives, and cationic polymerization curing adhesives. Examples of curing components in (meth)acrylate adhesives include compounds having a (meth)acryloyl group and compounds having a vinyl group. Compounds having an epoxy group or an oxetanyl group can also be used as cationic polymerization curing adhesives. Among these, UV-curing adhesives that cure with UV irradiation are preferred from the viewpoint of resistance to heat deformation.

[0082] In addition to the above, other possible components of the first embodiment of the optical component of the present invention include a protective layer, an oxygen barrier layer, an ultraviolet absorbing layer, and a blue light absorbing layer.

[0083] <<Second Embodiment>> Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the second embodiment of the optical member of the present invention. The optical member 10B has a light-absorbing anisotropic layer 12, a third phase difference layer 20, a fourth phase difference layer 22, and a light-reflecting layer 14 in this order. In the second embodiment of the optical member of the present invention, similar to the first embodiment described above, when light is incident from an oblique direction, the incident light is partially absorbed by the light-absorbing anisotropic layer 12, whose transmittance center axis is arranged in a predetermined direction. Taking the case where the transmittance center axis of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer 12 is parallel in the thickness direction as an example, the light transmitted through the light-absorbing anisotropic layer 12 becomes s-polarized due to the absorption characteristics of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer 12. This s-polarized light is converted into circularly polarized light by the third phase difference layer 20 and the fourth phase difference layer 22. Subsequently, when the circularly polarized light is reflected by the light-reflecting layer 14, it becomes circularly polarized light with the rotation direction reversed. Furthermore, this circularly polarized light, whose rotation direction is reversed, is converted to p-polarized light by the third phase difference layer 20 and the fourth phase difference layer 22, and then the p-polarized light is absorbed by the light absorption anisotropy layer 12. In other words, light incident from an oblique direction is ultimately absorbed by the light absorption anisotropy layer 12, and external light reflection is suppressed. Also, in the light absorption anisotropy layer 12, the angle between the transmittance center axis of the light absorption anisotropy layer 12 and the normal direction of the light absorption anisotropy layer 12 is 0 to 45°, so light incident from the front of the light absorption anisotropy layer 12 is less likely to be absorbed. In other words, light incident from the front of the light absorption anisotropy layer 12 is easily transmitted, and as a result, the transmittance in the front direction is excellent. Note that although the layers are arranged adjacent to each other in Figure 2, the configuration is not limited to this, and other members may be included between the layers.

[0084] The light-absorbing anisotropic layer and the light-reflecting layer included in the second embodiment of the optical member of the present invention have the same configuration as the light-absorbing anisotropic layer and the light-reflecting layer included in the first embodiment of the optical member of the present invention described above, so their explanation is omitted.

[0085] <Third and Fourth Phase Difference Layers> Both the third and fourth phase difference layers are λ / 4 layers. A λ / 4 layer is a plate (phase difference film) in which the in-plane retardation Re(λ) at a specific wavelength λnm satisfies Re(λ) ≈ λ / 4. This equation only needs to be achieved at any wavelength in the visible light range (for example, 550 nm), but it is preferable that the in-plane retardation Re(550) at a wavelength of 550 nm satisfies the relationship 110 nm ≤ Re(550) ≤ 160 nm, and more preferably 110 nm ≤ Re(550) ≤ 150 nm.

[0086] The materials constituting the third and fourth phase difference layers are not particularly limited and may be layers formed using liquid crystal compounds or resin films. In particular, the third and fourth phase difference layers are preferably layers formed by fixing liquid crystal compounds. As a method for fixing the liquid crystal compound, for example, a method is used in which a liquid crystal compound having polymerizable groups is used to orient the liquid crystal compound, and then the liquid crystal compound is polymerized to form the third and fourth phase difference layers. The definition of "fixed" is as described above. Specific examples of liquid crystal compounds are the same as those described in the section on the light absorption anisotropy layer, so their explanation is omitted.

[0087] The thickness of the third phase difference layer and the fourth phase difference layer is preferably 0.1 to 20 μm, more preferably 0.5 to 15 μm, and even more preferably 1 to 10 μm.

[0088] The angle between the in-plane slow axis of the third phase difference layer and the in-plane slow axis of the fourth phase difference layer is 35 to 55°, and 40 to 50° is preferred in that the effects of the present invention are more superior.

[0089] Furthermore, in the second embodiment of the optical member of the present invention, there is no absorption layer having an absorption axis between the fourth phase difference layer and the light reflection layer. The definition of an absorption layer having an absorption axis is the same as the definition of an absorption layer having an absorption axis described in the first embodiment of the optical member of the present invention described above.

[0090] Furthermore, a second embodiment of the optical member of the present invention may include other members described in the first embodiment of the optical member of the present invention.

[0091] <<Third Embodiment>> Figure 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the third embodiment of the optical member of the present invention. The optical member 10C has a light-absorbing anisotropy layer 12, a fifth phase difference layer 24, and a light-reflecting layer 14 in this order. In the third embodiment of the optical member of the present invention, similar to the first embodiment described above, when light is incident from an oblique direction, the incident light is partially absorbed by the light-absorbing anisotropy layer 12, whose transmittance center axis is arranged in a predetermined direction. Taking the case where the transmittance center axis of the light-absorbing anisotropy layer 12 is parallel in the thickness direction as an example, the light transmitted through the light-absorbing anisotropy layer 12 becomes s-polarized due to the absorption characteristics of the light-absorbing anisotropy layer 12. This s-polarized light is converted to circularly polarized light by the fifth phase difference layer 24. Subsequently, when the circularly polarized light is reflected by the light-reflecting layer 14, it becomes circularly polarized light with the rotation direction reversed. Furthermore, this circularly polarized light, whose rotation direction is reversed, is converted to p-polarized light by the fifth phase difference layer 24, and then the p-polarized light is absorbed by the light absorption anisotropy layer 12. In other words, light incident from an oblique direction is ultimately absorbed by the light absorption anisotropy layer 12, and external light reflection is suppressed. Also, in the light absorption anisotropy layer 12, the angle between the transmittance center axis of the light absorption anisotropy layer 12 and the normal direction of the light absorption anisotropy layer 12 is 0 to 45°, so light incident from the front of the light absorption anisotropy layer 12 is less likely to be absorbed. In other words, light incident from the front of the light absorption anisotropy layer 12 is easily transmitted, and as a result, the transmittance in the front direction is excellent. Note that although the layers are arranged adjacent to each other in Figure 3, the configuration is not limited to this, and other members may be included between the layers.

[0092] The light-absorbing anisotropic layer and the light-reflecting layer included in the third aspect of the optical member of the present invention have the same configuration as the light-absorbing anisotropic layer and the light-reflecting layer included in the first aspect of the optical member of the present invention described above, so their explanation is omitted.

[0093] <Fifth Phase Difference Layer> The fifth phase difference layer contains a liquid crystal compound that is torsionally oriented with the thickness direction of the fifth phase difference layer as the helical axis. Preferably, the fifth phase difference layer is a layer in which the liquid crystal compound is fixed. A method for fixing the liquid crystal compound is the method described for the first phase difference layer.

[0094] The liquid crystal compounds in the fifth phase difference layer can generally be classified into rod-shaped and disc-shaped types based on their shape. Furthermore, each of these types can be further divided into low-molecular-weight and high-molecular-weight types. Specific examples and preferred embodiments of the liquid crystal compounds are the same as those described in the section on the light-absorbing anisotropic layer, and therefore will not be explained further.

[0095] Here, a method for forming a fifth phase difference layer containing a torsion-oriented liquid crystal compound is, for example, a method of forming it using a liquid crystal composition containing a liquid crystal compound and a chiral agent. Examples of chiral agents include the chiral agents described in the first embodiment of the optical member of the present invention.

[0096] The torsion angle of the liquid crystal compound in the fifth phase difference layer is not particularly limited, but 230 to 325° is preferred, 230 to 300° is more preferred, and 235 to 275° is even more preferred in terms of achieving superior effects of the present invention. The torsion angle can be adjusted by the type of chiral agent contained in the liquid crystal composition and the amount of chiral agent contained therein.

[0097] Furthermore, in the fifth phase difference layer, the product Δnd of the refractive index anisotropy Δn and the thickness d is not particularly limited, but 500 to 600 nm is preferred, and 525 to 575 nm is more preferred, in terms of achieving superior effects of the present invention. The value of Δnd can be adjusted by the type of liquid crystal compound used to form the fifth phase difference layer and the thickness of the fifth phase difference layer.

[0098] The thickness of the fifth phase difference layer is preferably 0.1 to 20 μm, more preferably 0.5 to 15 μm, and even more preferably 1 to 10 μm.

[0099] Furthermore, in the third embodiment of the optical member of the present invention, there is no absorption layer having an absorption axis between the fifth phase difference layer and the light reflection layer. The definition of an absorption layer having an absorption axis is the same as the definition of an absorption layer having an absorption axis described in the first embodiment of the optical member of the present invention described above.

[0100] Furthermore, a third aspect of the optical member of the present invention may include other members described in the first aspect of the optical member of the present invention.

[0101] <<Applications>> The optical component of the present invention can be used in various display devices. A display device is a device having a display element and includes a light-emitting element or a light-emitting device as a light source. Examples of display devices include liquid crystal displays, organic EL displays, inorganic EL displays, electron emission displays, surface field emission displays, electronic paper, plasma displays, projection displays, and piezoelectric ceramic displays. Liquid crystal displays include transmissive liquid crystal displays and semi-transmissive liquid crystal displays. As described above, since the component included in the organic EL display element may be a light-reflecting layer, the optical component of the present invention can be used particularly effectively in organic EL displays.

[0102] The features of the present invention will be further described below with reference to examples and comparative examples. The materials, amounts used, proportions, processing content, and processing procedures shown in the following examples can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention should not be interpreted restrictively by the specific examples shown below.

[0103] <Example 1> Optical component A1 was fabricated using the following procedure.

[0104] (Preparation of light-absorbing anisotropic film) The following orientation film-forming composition was applied onto a cellulose acylate film. The support with the coated film was dried with 100°C hot air for 120 seconds to form an orientation film. The thickness of the orientation film was 1.0 μm. --------------------------------------------------- Orientation film-forming composition --------------------------------------------------- ・Modified polyvinyl alcohol PVA-1 3.80 parts by mass ・Water 70 parts by mass ・Methanol 30 parts by mass ---------------------------------------------------

[0105] Modified polyvinyl alcohol PVA-1

[0106]

[0107] The following light-absorbing anisotropic layer-forming composition was continuously applied to the resulting cellulose acylate film with the orientation film using a wire bar, heated at 120°C for 60 seconds, and then cooled to room temperature (23°C). Next, it was heated at 80°C for 60 seconds and cooled again to room temperature. After that, an LED lamp (center wavelength 365 nm) was used to illuminate the film from the direction normal to the coating film at an illuminance of 200 mW / cm². ２ A light-absorbing anisotropic layer was fabricated on the orientation film by irradiating it for 2 seconds under the specified irradiation conditions. The thickness of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer was 4.5 μm. The angle between the transmittance center axis of the fabricated light-absorbing anisotropic layer and the normal direction of the surface of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer was found to be 0° using the method described above. Furthermore, using an AxoScan OPMF-2 (manufactured by Axometrics), light was incident from the normal direction of the surface of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer, and the transmittance at a wavelength of 550 nm was measured, resulting in a frontal transmittance of 75%.

[0108] ------------------------------------------------------------ Composition for forming anisotropic light-absorbing layer ------------------------------------------------------------ • Dichroic substance D-1 below 0.69 parts by mass • Dichroic substance D-2 below 0.17 parts by mass • Dichroic substance D-3 below 1.13 parts by mass • Polymer liquid crystal compound PL below 8.67 parts by mass • Liquid crystal compound L-1 below 1.97 parts by mass • IRGACURE OXE-02 (manufactured by BASF) 0.20 parts by mass • Orienting agent E-1 below 0.16 parts by mass • Orienting agent E-2 below 0.16 parts by mass • Surfactant F-1 below 0.007 parts by mass • Cyclopentanone 78.17 parts by mass • Benzyl alcohol 8.69 parts by mass ------------------------------------------------------------

[0109] Dichroic substance D-1

[0110]

[0111] Dichroic substance D-2

[0112]

[0113] Dichroic substance D-3

[0114]

[0115] Polymer liquid crystal compound PL [In the formula below, the numerical values ​​listed for each repeating unit represent the content (mass%) of each repeating unit relative to the total number of repeating units. Weight-average molecular weight: 21000]

[0116]

[0117] Liquid crystal compound L-1 [A mixture of the following liquid crystal compounds (RA), (RB), and (RC) in a mass ratio of 84:14:2]

[0118]

[0119] Orienting agent E-1

[0120]

[0121] Orienting agent E-2

[0122]

[0123] Surfactant F-1 [In the formula below, the numerical values ​​listed for each repeating unit indicate the content (mass %) of each repeating unit relative to the total number of repeating units. TMS represents a trimethylsilyl group.]

[0124]

[0125] (Formation of protective layer) The following protective layer-forming composition was continuously applied to the obtained light-absorbing anisotropic layer using a wire bar to form a coating film. Next, the support on which the coating film was formed was dried with 60°C hot air for 60 seconds, and then with 100°C hot air for 120 seconds to form a protective layer, thereby producing a light-absorbing anisotropic film having a light-absorbing anisotropic layer. The thickness of the protective layer was 0.5 μm.

[0126] ------------------------------------------------------------------- Composition for forming a protective layer ------------------------------------------------------------------- ・Modified polyvinyl alcohol PVA-1 3.80 parts by mass ・IRGACURE 2959 0.20 parts by mass ・Water 70 parts by mass ・Methanol 30 parts by mass -------------------------------------------------------------------

[0127] (Preparation of the phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer)) [Synthesis of polymer P-1] Polymer P-1 was synthesized using monomers mA-1 and mB-1, which were synthesized by the method shown below, as raw material monomers, by the method shown below.

[0128] [Synthesis of Monomer mA-1] 50.0 g of 4-aminocyclohexanol, 48.3 g of triethylamine, and 800 g of N,N-dimethylacetamide were weighed into a 2 L three-necked flask equipped with a stirring blade, thermometer, dropping funnel, and reflux duct, and the mixture was stirred under ice cooling. Next, 47.5 g of methacrylate chloride was added dropwise to the flask over 40 minutes using a dropping funnel, and after the addition was complete, the reaction mixture was stirred at 40°C for 2 hours. After the reaction mixture was cooled to room temperature (23°C), the reaction mixture was filtered by suction to remove the precipitated salt. The obtained organic phase was transferred to a 2 L three-necked flask equipped with a stirring blade, thermometer, dropping funnel, and reflux duct, and stirred under water cooling. Next, N,N-dimethylaminopyridine (10.6 g) and triethylamine (65.9 g) were added to the flask. Using a dropping funnel, 4-n-octyloxycinnamic acid chloride (127.9 g), which had been previously dissolved in tetrahydrofuran (125 g), was added dropwise to the flask over 30 minutes. After the addition was complete, the reaction mixture was stirred at 50°C for 6 hours. After the reaction mixture was cooled to room temperature, it was separated and washed with water. The resulting organic phase was dried over anhydrous magnesium sulfate, and the resulting solution was concentrated to obtain a yellowish-white solid. The obtained yellowish-white solid was heated and dissolved in methyl ethyl ketone (400 g), and recrystallization was performed to obtain 76 g of monomer mA-1 as a white solid (yield 40%).

[0129]

[0130] [Monomer mB-1] Cyclomer M-100 (manufactured by Daicel Corporation) with the following structure was used as monomer mB-1.

[0131]

[0132] [Synthesis of Polymer P-1] A flask equipped with a condenser, thermometer, and stirrer was charged with 2-butanone (5 parts by mass) as the solvent, and the mixture was refluxed by heating in a water bath while 5 mL / min of nitrogen was flowed into the flask. A solution of monomer mA-1 (1.2 parts by mass), monomer mB-1 (8.8 parts by mass), 2,2'-azobis(isobutyronitrile) (1 part by mass) as a polymerization initiator, and 2-butanone (5 parts by mass) as the solvent was added dropwise over 3 hours, and the resulting reaction mixture was stirred while maintaining reflux for another 3 hours. After the reaction was complete, the reaction mixture was allowed to cool to room temperature, and 2-butanone (30 parts by mass) was added to dilute the reaction mixture to obtain a polymer solution with a polymer concentration of approximately 20% by mass. The obtained polymer solution was added to a large excess of methanol to precipitate the polymer, the precipitate was filtered off, the resulting solid was washed with a large amount of methanol, and then air-dried at 50°C for 12 hours to obtain polymer P-1 having photo-oriented groups.

[0133] [Preparation of the composition for photo-alignment film] The composition for photo-alignment film was prepared as follows: ───────────────────────────────── Composition for photo-alignment film ───────────────────────────────── ・The above polymer P-1 100.00 parts by mass ・The following thermal acid generator TA 3.00 parts by mass ・Diisopropylethylamine 0.60 parts by mass ・Butyl acetate 953.12 parts by mass ・Methyl ethyl ketone 238.28 parts by mass ─────────────────────────────────

[0134] Thermal acid generator TA

[0135]

[0136] [Preparation of Phase Difference Layer (λ / 4 layer)] A photo-alignment film composition was applied to one side of a 40 μm thick cellulose acylate film (TAC substrate; manufactured by Fujifilm Corporation, TG40) using a bar coater. The film coated with the photo-alignment film composition was then dried on a hot plate at 125°C for 2 minutes to remove the solvent and form a precursor film with a thickness of 0.15 μm. The obtained precursor film was then irradiated with polarized ultraviolet light (8 mJ / cm²). ２ A photo-alignment film was formed by heating (using an ultra-high pressure mercury lamp). Next, the following phase difference layer coating solution was applied onto the photo-alignment film using a bar coater. The coating film formed on the photo-alignment film was heated to 120°C with hot air, then cooled to 60°C, and then heated at a wavelength of 365 nm and a pressure of 100 mJ / cm² using a high-pressure mercury lamp under a nitrogen atmosphere. ２ The coating is irradiated with ultraviolet light, followed by heating to 120°C while applying 500 mJ / cm² of UV light. ２ The coating film was irradiated with ultraviolet light. Following the above procedure, the orientation of the liquid crystal compound was fixed, a phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer) was fabricated, and a laminate was obtained. The Re(550) of the obtained laminate (cellulose acylate film / photo-alignment film / phase difference layer) and the phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer) were both 140 nm, and the Rth(550) was both 80 nm.

[0137] ------------------------------------------------------------------- Coating solution for phase difference layer ------------------------------------------------------------------- ・Polymerizable liquid crystal compound L-2 39.00 parts by mass ・Polymerizable liquid crystal compound L-3 39.00 parts by mass ・Polymerizable liquid crystal compound L-4 17.00 parts by mass ・Polymerizable liquid crystal compound A-1 5.00 parts by mass ・Polymerization initiator S-1 (oxime type) 0.50 parts by mass ・Surfactant F-2 0.20 parts by mass ・Cyclopentanone 235.00 parts by mass -------------------------------------------------------------------

[0138] Polymerizable liquid crystal compound L-2 [In the following formula, tBu represents a tert-butyl group.]

[0139]

[0140] Polymerizable liquid crystal compound L-3

[0141]

[0142] Polymerizable liquid crystal compound L-4

[0143]

[0144] Polymerizable liquid crystal compound A-1 [In the following formula, Me represents a methyl group.]

[0145]

[0146] Polymerization initiator S-1

[0147]

[0148] Surfactant F-2 [In the formula below, the numerical values ​​listed for each repeating unit represent the content (mass %) of each repeating unit relative to the total number of repeating units.]

[0149]

[0150] (Preparation of the light-reflecting layer) A Samsung Galaxy S4 smartphone (equipped with an organic EL display element) was disassembled, and the polarizing plate attached to the EL substrate was peeled off. The reflectance of the light-reflecting layer within the EL substrate was measured according to the method described below, and the reflectance was found to be 40%. Using a spectrophotometer (Konica Minolta, CM-2022), the Y value of the display system at a 10° field of view and observation light source D65 was defined as the reflectance.

[0151] (Fabrication of optical component A1) On the EL substrate containing the light-reflecting layer prepared above, an adhesive layer [Opteria® NCF-D692 (film thickness: 15 μm, manufactured by Lintec Corporation)] was used to bond the laminate containing the phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer) prepared above so that the phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer) side becomes the light-reflecting layer. Then, the cellulose acylate film, which is the support member for the phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer), was peeled off. Furthermore, using a laminate containing a phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer) prepared separately in the same manner as above, two phase difference layers (λ / 4 layers) were bonded together using an adhesive layer [Opteria® NCF-D692 (film thickness: 15 μm, manufactured by Lintec Corporation)] so that they face each other. At this time, the bonding was done so that the angle between the in-plane slow phase axes of the two phase difference layers (λ / 4 layers) was 45°. Next, the cellulose acylate film, which is a support member for the phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer) in the resulting laminate, was peeled off. Then, the optical member A1 was fabricated by laminating it using an adhesive layer [Opteria® NCF-D692 (film thickness: 15 μm, manufactured by Lintec Corporation)] so that the coated side of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer fabricated above was on the phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer) side. In optical member A1, there was no absorption layer having an absorption axis between the phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer) located on the light-reflecting layer side of the two phase difference layers (λ / 4 layers) and the light-reflecting layer.

[0152] <Example 2> (Preparation of Twisted Liquid Crystal Layer 1) A release support was prepared by rubbing the surface of a 75 μm polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film (manufactured by Fujifilm Corporation). The following twisted liquid crystal layer coating liquid 1 was applied to the rubbing surface of the prepared release support using a bar coater to form a coating film with a thickness of 3.4 μm. Next, the coating film was heated and aged for 90 seconds at a surface temperature of 60°C, and then 300 mJ / cm² was applied to the coating film at 100°C. ２By irradiating with ultraviolet light, the orientation of the liquid crystal compound was fixed to form a twisted liquid crystal layer 1, and a twisted film 1 containing a peelable support and the twisted liquid crystal layer 1 was fabricated. Analysis using AxoScan OPMF-2 (manufactured by Axometrics) confirmed that the Δnd of the obtained twisted liquid crystal layer 1 was 550 nm. Furthermore, the twisted liquid crystal layer 1 contained a liquid crystal compound that was twisted and oriented along a helical axis extending in the thickness direction. Analysis using AxoScan OPMF-2 (manufactured by Axometrics) confirmed that the twist angle of the helical liquid crystal compound was 250°.

[0153] ------------------------------------------------------------------- Coating solution 1 for twisted liquid crystal layer ------------------------------------------------------------------- ・Methyl ethyl ketone 233 parts by mass ・Cyclohexanone 12 parts by mass ・The following rod-shaped liquid crystal compound 201 83 parts by mass ・The following rod-shaped liquid crystal compound 202 15 parts by mass ・The following rod-shaped liquid crystal compound 203 2 parts by mass ・Polyfunctional monomer A-TMMT (manufactured by Shin Nakamura Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) 1 part by mass ・IRGACURE 819 (manufactured by BASF) 4 parts by mass ・The following surfactant F-4 0.05 parts by mass ・The following surfactant F-5 0.01 parts by mass ・The following chiral agent 1 0.280 parts by mass -------------------------------------------------------------------

[0154] Rod-shaped liquid crystal compound 201

[0155]

[0156] Rod-shaped liquid crystal compound 202 [In the following formula, Me represents a methyl group.]

[0157]

[0158] Rod-shaped liquid crystal compound 203 [In the following formula, Me represents a methyl group.]

[0159]

[0160] Surfactant F-4

[0161]

[0162] Surfactant F-5

[0163]

[0164] Chiral agent 1

[0165]

[0166] (Fabrication of Optical Component A2) The twisted film 1 prepared above was bonded to the EL substrate containing the light-reflecting layer prepared above, with the twisted liquid crystal layer 1 side facing the light-reflecting layer side, and the PET film, which is the support member for the twisted liquid crystal layer 1, was peeled off. Next, the optical component A2 was fabricated by bonding the light-absorbing anisotropic layer prepared above with the coated side facing the twisted liquid crystal layer 1 side using an adhesive layer [Opteria® NCF-D692 (film thickness: 15 μm, manufactured by Lintec Corporation)]. Note that in optical component A2, there was no absorption layer having an absorption axis between the light-reflecting layer and the twisted liquid crystal layer 1.

[0167] <Example 3> (Preparation of Twisted Liquid Crystal Layer 2) In the preparation of the twisted liquid crystal layer 1 of Example 2, the twisted film 2 was prepared in the same manner as the twisted liquid crystal layer 1, except that the coating solution 1 for the twisted liquid crystal layer was changed to the coating solution 2 for the twisted liquid crystal layer described below. Analysis using AxoScan OPMF-2 (manufactured by Axometrics) confirmed that the Δnd of the obtained twisted liquid crystal layer 2 was 550 nm. Furthermore, the twisted liquid crystal layer 2 contained a liquid crystal compound that was twisted and oriented along a helical axis extending in the thickness direction. Analysis using AxoScan OPMF-2 (manufactured by Axometrics) confirmed that the twist angle of the helical liquid crystal compound was 315°.

[0168] ------------------------------------------------------------------- Coating solution 2 for twisted liquid crystal layer ------------------------------------------------------------------- ・Methyl ethyl ketone 233 parts by mass ・Cyclohexanone 12 parts by mass ・The above rod-shaped liquid crystal compound 201 83 parts by mass ・The above rod-shaped liquid crystal compound 202 15 parts by mass ・The above rod-shaped liquid crystal compound 203 2 parts by mass ・Polyfunctional monomer A-TMMT (manufactured by Shin Nakamura Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.) 1 part by mass ・IRGACURE 819 (manufactured by BASF) 4 parts by mass ・The above surfactant F-4 0.05 parts by mass ・The above surfactant F-5 0.01 parts by mass ・The above chiral agent 1 0.352 parts by mass -------------------------------------------------------------------

[0169] (Preparation of Negative C Plate) The following coating solution for the negative C plate was prepared to obtain a homogeneous solution. ------------------------------------------------------------------- Coating solution for the negative C plate ------------------------------------------------------------------- ・Discotic liquid crystal compound CA-1 80 parts by mass ・Discotic liquid crystal compound CA-2 20 parts by mass ・Discotic liquid crystal compound CB-1 5.6 parts by mass ・Polymerizable monomer CS1 5.6 parts by mass ・Polymer CC-1 0.2 parts by mass ・Polymerization initiator (Irgacure 907, manufactured by BASF) 3 parts by mass ・Toluene 170 parts by mass ・Methyl ethyl ketone 73 parts by mass -------------------------------------------------------------------

[0170] Discotic liquid crystal compound CA-1 (1,3,5-substituted benzene-type polymerizable discotic liquid crystal compound)

[0171]

[0172] Discotic liquid crystal compound CA-2 (1,3,5-substituted benzene-type polymerizable discotic liquid crystal compound)

[0173]

[0174] Discotic liquid crystal compound CB-1 (polymerizable triphenylene-type discotic liquid crystal compound)

[0175]

[0176] Polymerizable monomer CS1

[0177]

[0178] Polymer CC-1 (The copolymerization ratio of the chemical structural formula is indicated in mass percent below.)

[0179]

[0180] As a support, a commercially available cellulose triacetate film (Fujitac ZRD40, manufactured by Fujifilm Corporation) was used after saponification treatment. The above-mentioned coating solution for negative C plates was applied to the surface of the support, and the solvent was dried by continuously heating from room temperature to 100°C. The coated film was then heated for approximately 90 seconds in a 100°C drying zone. After that, the temperature was lowered to 60°C and then 300 mJ / cm² was applied under atmospheric pressure. ２ The coated film was cured by UV exposure to obtain a cured film. After the cured film cooled to room temperature, the orientation of the cured film was observed, and it was found that the discotic liquid crystal compound was horizontally oriented without defects. A negative C plate was obtained in which the laminated film of the cured film and the support had a Re(550) of 3 nm and a Rth(550) of 190 nm.

[0181] (Fabrication of Optical Component A3) An adhesive layer [Opteria® NCF-D692 (film thickness: 15 μm, manufactured by Lintec Corporation)] was used to bond the EL substrate containing the light-reflecting layer prepared above to the negative C plate prepared above, so that the coated layer side of the negative C plate was the light-reflecting layer. Furthermore, the twisted film 2 prepared above was bonded so that the twisted liquid crystal layer 2 side was the negative C plate side, and the PET film, which is the support member of the twisted liquid crystal layer 2, was peeled off. Next, an adhesive layer [Opteria® NCF-D692 (film thickness: 15 μm, manufactured by Lintec Corporation)] was used to bond the light-absorbing anisotropic layer prepared above so that the coated surface side was the twisted liquid crystal layer 2 side, thereby fabricating optical component A3. Note that in optical component A3, no absorption layer having an absorption axis was included between the light-reflecting layer and the negative C plate.

[0182] <Comparative Example 1> (Preparation of Polarizing Plate) A polarizing plate with a polarizer thickness of 8 μm and one side of the polarizer (other light-absorbing anisotropic layer) exposed was prepared using the same method as the polarizing plate 02 with a single protective film described in International Publication No. 2015 / 166991.

[0183] Using an AxoScan OPMF-2 (manufactured by Axometrics), light was incident on the surface of the polarizer from the normal direction, and the transmittance at a wavelength of 550 nm was measured. The frontal transmittance was found to be 42%.

[0184] (Fabrication of Optical Component B1) An adhesive layer [Opteria® NCF-D692 (film thickness: 15 μm, manufactured by Lintec Corporation)] was used to bond the EL substrate containing the light-reflecting layer prepared above to the laminate containing the phase-difference layer (λ / 4 layer) prepared in Example 1, so that the phase-difference layer (λ / 4 layer) side becomes the light-reflecting layer. Then, the cellulose acylate film, which is the support member for the phase-difference layer (λ / 4 layer), was peeled off. Furthermore, an adhesive layer [Opteria® NCF-D692 (film thickness: 15 μm, manufactured by Lintec Corporation)] was used to bond the polarizer side of the polarizer plate prepared above to the phase-difference layer (λ / 4 layer) side, thereby fabricating optical component B1. At this time, the bonding was performed so that the angle between the in-plane slow-phase axis of the phase-difference layer (λ / 4 layer) and the absorption axis of the polarizer plate was 45°.

[0185] <Comparative Example 2> The EL substrate containing the light-reflecting layer prepared above was used as optical component B2 as is. In other words, no layers were placed on the light-reflecting layer in optical component B2.

[0186] <Evaluation of Oblique Reflection Prevention of Optical Components> Light was shone onto the fabricated optical components A1 to A3 and optical components B1 to B2 from a direction with an extreme angle of 60°, and the reflection of light was evaluated according to the following criteria. The results are shown in Table 1. For practical purposes, an evaluation of A or B is preferable. A: No reflection of light is noticeable when viewed from any direction at an oblique angle of 60°. B: When viewed from an oblique angle of 60°, there are directions in which reflection is noticeable and directions in which it is not. C: No reflection of light is noticeable when viewed from any direction at an oblique angle of 60°.

[0187] <Evaluation of Transmittance of Optical Components> With the light source of the fabricated optical components A1 to A3, or the organic EL panel containing optical component B1, turned ON, the brightness when viewed from the front of the optical component was evaluated according to the following criteria. The results are shown in Table 1. For practical purposes, an evaluation of A is preferable. A: Compared to the brightness when viewed from the front with the light source of the organic EL panel without the fabricated optical component turned ON, the darkness of the display screen is not noticeable. B: Compared to the brightness when viewed from the front with the light source of the organic EL panel without the fabricated optical component turned ON, the darkness of the display screen is noticeable.

[0188] In Table 1, the "Phase Difference Layer X" column shows the characteristics of "λ / 4 (0°)" in Example 1, the characteristics of "Twisted Liquid Crystal Layer 1" in Example 2, the characteristics of "Twisted Liquid Crystal Layer 2" in Example 3, and the characteristics of "λ / 4 (45°)" in Comparative Example 1. The "Phase Difference Layer Y" column shows the characteristics of "λ / 4 (45°)" in Example 1 and the characteristics of "C Plate" in Example 3. In Table 1, the angles in "λ / 4 (0°)" and "λ / 4 (45°)" in the "Configuration" column of Example 1 represent the in-plane slow axis of the phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer) on the light reflection layer side as 45°, when the orientation of the in-plane slow axis of the phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer) on the light absorption anisotropy layer side is set to 0°, and when observed from the light absorption anisotropy layer side and counterclockwise is represented as a positive value. In other words, the angle between the in-plane slow axes of the two phase difference layers (λ / 4 layers) was 45°. In Table 1, the angles in the "Configuration" column for Comparative Example 1, specifically "Polarizer (0°)" and "λ / 4 (45°)," represent the in-plane slow axis of the phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer) as 45°, when the orientation of the polarizer's absorption axis is 0° and counterclockwise rotation is represented as a positive value when observed from the polarizer side. In other words, the angle between the polarizer's absorption axis and the in-plane slow axis of the phase difference layer (λ / 4 layer) was 45°.

[0189]

[0190] As shown in Table 1 above, it was confirmed that the optical component of the present invention exhibits the desired effect. In particular, a comparison of Examples 1 to 3 confirmed that the first embodiment of the optical component of the present invention exhibits a more superior effect.

[0191] 10A, 10B, 10C 12 Light-absorbing anisotropic layer 14 Light-reflecting layer 16 First phase difference layer 18 Second phase difference layer 20 Third phase difference layer 22 Fourth phase difference layer 24 Fifth phase difference layer

Claims

1. An optical member having a light-absorbing anisotropic layer, a first phase difference layer, a second phase difference layer, and a light-reflecting layer in this order, wherein the angle between the transmittance center axis of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer and the normal direction of the surface of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer is 0 to 45°, the first phase difference layer contains a liquid crystal compound that is torsion-oriented with the thickness direction of the first phase difference layer as the helical axis, the second phase difference layer is a C-plate, and there is no absorption layer having an absorption axis between the second phase difference layer and the light-reflecting layer.

2. An optical member having a light-absorbing anisotropic layer, a third phase difference layer, a fourth phase difference layer, and a light-reflecting layer in this order, wherein the angle between the transmittance center axis of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer and the normal direction of the surface of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer is 0 to 45°, the angle between the in-plane slow axis of the third phase difference layer and the in-plane slow axis of the fourth phase difference layer is 35 to 55°, both the third phase difference layer and the fourth phase difference layer are λ / 4 layers, and there is no absorption layer having an absorption axis between the fourth phase difference layer and the light-reflecting layer.

3. An optical member having a light-absorbing anisotropic layer, a fifth phase difference layer, and a light-reflecting layer in this order, wherein the angle between the transmittance center axis of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer and the normal direction of the surface of the light-absorbing anisotropic layer is 0 to 45°, the fifth phase difference layer contains a liquid crystal compound that is torsionally oriented with the thickness direction of the fifth phase difference layer as the helical axis, and there is no absorption layer having an absorption axis between the fifth phase difference layer and the light-reflecting layer.

4. The optical member according to claim 1, wherein the torsion angle of the liquid crystal compound is 100 to 325°.

5. The optical member according to claim 1, wherein the product Δnd of the refractive index anisotropy Δn of the first phase difference layer and the thickness d of the first phase difference layer is 300 to 650 nm.

6. The optical member according to claim 1, wherein the retardation of the C plate in the thickness direction at a wavelength of 550 nm is -600 to -300 nm or 100 to 400 nm.

7. The optical member according to claim 3, wherein the torsion angle of the liquid crystal compound is 230 to 325°.

8. The optical member according to claim 3, wherein the product Δnd of the refractive index anisotropy Δn of the fifth phase difference layer and the thickness d of the fifth phase difference layer is 500 to 600 nm.

9. An organic electroluminescent display device having the optical member described in any one of claims 1 to 8.

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