Crosslinked Emissive Layer Quantum Dots UV Activation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing light-emitting devices with quantum dots (QDs) face challenges in achieving high-resolution, multicolor displays due to limitations in subpixel arrangement size and stability, particularly under ambient UV light and exposure to moisture and reactive oxygen species, which affect long-term performance and light output.

Innovation Solution

A light-emitting device is developed with a crosslinked emissive layer containing quantum dots dispersed in a matrix formed from crosslinkable charge transport materials, where UV activation crosslinks the materials, including hole and electron transport layers, to enhance stability and prevent changes in light output over time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional emissive layers are used in light-emitting devices, then the device structure is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the subpixel arrangements cannot be made sufficiently small for high-resolution displays

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesubpixel arrangement sizeVSAvoidemissive layer structure
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a composite emissive layer combining quantum dots dispersed in a crosslinkable matrix material. This composite structure enables smaller subpixel arrangements by providing better material properties for high-resolution displays while maintaining manufacturability through a unified layer deposition process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the emissive layer by introducing crosslinkable functional groups that react upon UV irradiation. This parameter change transforms the material from a simple dispersion to a crosslinked network, enabling smaller subpixel features and improved resolution.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If quantum dots are deposited in conventional emissive layers, then the device is easier to manufacture, but the stability against environmental factors such as UV light, moisture, and reactive oxygen species deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestability against environmental factorsVSAvoidemissive layer deposition process
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The crosslinked matrix creates a protective environment around the quantum dots, effectively isolating them from harmful environmental factors such as moisture, oxygen, and UV light. This inert-like protection significantly improves the stability and longevity of the quantum dot emission without complicating the manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #39Inert atmosphere (Inert environment)

Solution Approach 2:

The combination of quantum dots with crosslinkable matrix materials forms a composite emissive layer that inherently provides environmental stability. The crosslinked network structure protects the quantum dots from degradation while maintaining ease of deposition through solution processing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Duration of action of stationary object

If quantum dots are used in light-emitting devices, then multicolor emission is achieved, but the light output degrades over time under electrical bias and environmental exposure

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice operation durationVSAvoidlight output degradation
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of stationary objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The crosslinked matrix is formed beforehand to provide a stable, protective environment for the quantum dots before device operation begins. This pre-formed crosslinked structure cushions the quantum dots against degradation from electrical bias and environmental factors, ensuring sustained light output over extended operation durations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the chemical state of the matrix material from uncrosslinked to crosslinked through UV irradiation, fundamentally altering the stability parameters of the emissive layer. This parameter change prevents light output degradation by creating a chemically stable network that resists environmental and electrical stress.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution allows for smaller subpixel arrangements, improved stability against environmental factors, and sustained performance, ensuring consistent light output without degradation, even under electrical bias.

Implementation Method 1

where UV activation crosslinks the materials, including hole and electron transport layers

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotopolymerisation: Photopolymerisation

Implementation Method 2

The holes and electrons recombine in the emissive material layer, which emits light

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroluminescence: Electroluminescence

Data Source

PatentUS10991900B2Crosslinked emissive layer containing quantum dots for light-emitting device and method for making same
Publication Date: 2021.04.27 SHARP KK
  • US10991900B2 patent drawing
  • US10991900B2 patent drawing
  • US10991900B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A light-emitting device includes an anode; a cathode; and an emissive layer disposed between the anode and the cathode, the emissive layer including quantum dots dispersed in a crosslinked matrix formed from one or more crosslinkable charge transport materials. A method of forming the emissive layer of a light-emitting device includes depositing a mixture including quantum dots and one or more crosslinkable charge transport materials on a layer; and subjecting at least a portion of the mixture to UV activation to form an emissive layer including quantum dots dispersed in a crosslinked matrix.