Hexadentate Iridium Complexes for OLED Emission

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for novel multidentate chromophores with improved properties for organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs), as existing hexadentate chelates require complex synthesis and are limited in systematic studies of substituent effects for excited-state tuning.

Innovation Solution

A compound with a specific structure, including 5 or 6-membered carbocyclic or heterocyclic rings and various organic linkers, is used in the organic layer of OLEDs, offering improved properties and simplified synthesis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If existing hexadentate chelates are used, then emission properties can be achieved, but synthesis complexity increases and systematic studies of substituent effects are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesynthesis simplicityVSAvoidsubstituent effects study capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The hexadentate chelate is divided into two separate bidentate ligands that coordinate to the same metal center. This segmentation simplifies the synthesis process as each bidentate ligand can be prepared independently through standard organic synthesis methods, and allows systematic variation of substituents on each ligand to study their individual and combined effects on emission properties

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The bidentate ligand structure serves multiple functions: it provides coordination to the metal center, allows for systematic substituent variation, and enables tuning of emission properties. The universal bidentate coordination mode works across different metal centers (Ir, Pt, Os, Ru) while maintaining structural simplicity and synthetic accessibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If complex hexadentate chelates are used, then emission properties are achieved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveemission performanceVSAvoidmolecular structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex hexadentate chelate is segmented into two simpler bidentate ligands. Each ligand has a well-defined structure with specific coordinating atoms (N, O, or S) that bind to the metal center. This segmentation reduces molecular structure complexity while maintaining reliable emission performance through the combined effect of the two ligands

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different bidentate ligands can be designed with specific local qualities - one ligand may provide strong field coordination while the other provides extended conjugation or specific substituent effects. This local differentiation allows optimization of emission properties without requiring overall molecular complexity

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 compound enhances the performance of OLEDs by providing improved emission properties and facilitating systematic studies of substituent effects, leading to more efficient and versatile OLED designs.

Implementation Method 1

OLEDs make use of thin organic films that emit light when voltage is applied across the device

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectroluminescence: Electroluminescence

Implementation Method 2

One application for phosphorescent emissive molecules is a full color display

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhosphorescence: Phosphorescence

Data Source

PatentUS11349087B2Organic electroluminescent materials and devices
Publication Date: 2022.05.31 UNIVERSAL DISPLAY CORP
  • US11349087B2 patent drawing
  • US11349087B2 patent drawing
  • US11349087B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Iridium complexes containing hexadentate ligands are disclosed. Multidentate iridium complexes of Formula II showed desired properties in term of EQE, LT, CIE, etc.