Epoxy-Group Solvent for Uniform Organic Layer Deposition

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing formulations for organic semiconductor layers in inkjet printing face challenges in achieving homogeneous deposition and efficient layer properties due to the complexity of solvent parameters such as surface tension, viscosity, and boiling point.

Innovation Solution

A formulation comprising an organic functional material and an organic solvent with an epoxy-group, which controls surface tension for uniform ink deposition and enhances layer properties and performance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If conventional solvents are used for inkjet printing of organic semiconductors, then the formulation can be prepared, but homogeneous deposition and uniform layer properties cannot be achieved due to uncontrolled surface tension

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvehomogeneous depositionVSAvoidsolvent parameter control
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by selecting solvents with specific epoxy groups that inherently provide controlled surface tension values. This changes the physical-chemical parameters of the solvent system to achieve homogeneous deposition without requiring complex additional control mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses composite solvent formulations combining epoxy-containing solvents with other compatible solvents to achieve optimal surface tension control. This composite approach allows fine-tuning of deposition properties while maintaining formulation stability and uniform layer formation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Reliability

If multiple solvent parameters are considered for optimal deposition, then layer properties can be improved, but the solvent selection becomes extremely challenging and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelayer propertiesVSAvoidsolvent selection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent simplifies solvent selection by focusing on a key parameter - surface tension control through epoxy group content. This parameter change approach reduces the complexity of considering multiple solvent properties simultaneously while maintaining reliable layer formation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The epoxy group acts as an intermediary functional group that mediates between the solvent and substrate interaction. By controlling surface tension through this specific chemical group, the patent provides a straightforward selection criterion that balances layer quality with selection simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of manufacture

If inkjet printing is used instead of vacuum deposition, then cost savings and scale-up possibilities are achieved, but controlled deposition and uniform layer formation become more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecost savings and scale-upVSAvoiddeposition uniformity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables inkjet printing viability by changing the solvent parameters to achieve controlled surface tension. This parameter optimization ensures that the inkjet-deposited layers form uniformly, making the process suitable for cost-effective manufacturing and scale-up while maintaining deposition precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality by optimizing the solvent properties specifically for the inkjet printing process requirements. The epoxy-containing solvents provide localized surface tension control at the deposition interface, ensuring uniform layer formation despite the differences from vacuum deposition methodology.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 use of an epoxy-group containing solvent allows for precise control of surface tension, resulting in uniform and well-defined organic layers with improved efficiency and performance in inkjet printing.

Implementation Method 1

the use of an organic solvent, which contains at least one epoxy-group as a first solvent allows a complete control of the surface tension and induces an effective ink deposition to form uniform and well-defined organic layers

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSurface tension: Surface Tension

Data Source

PatentUS11046884B2Formulation of an organic functional material comprising an epoxy group containing solvent
Publication Date: 2021.06.29 MERCK PATENT GMBH
  • US11046884B2 patent drawing
  • US11046884B2 patent drawing
  • US11046884B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to formulations containing at least one organic functional material and at least a first organic solvent, wherein said first organic solvent contains at least one epoxy-group as well as to electronic devices prepared by using these formulations.