Researchers from Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST) say they’ve hit new milestones in quantum dot (QD) technology. Their research has the potential to revolutionize the advancement of next-generation display systems. Professor Jong-Soo Lee of the Department of Energy Science and Engineering at POSTECH, principal investigator for the study. This study focuses on enhancing the performance and long-term stability of QLED devices through novel approaches.
Quantum dots are quantum-confined semiconductor particles, about one hundred-thousandth the thickness of a human hair. This extraordinary size makes them perfectly suited for use in many different display technologies, especially competing quantum dot-enabled devices like QLED. We’re so proud of our research Dream Team for producing these powerful results! They discovered that QLEDs employing post-treated quantum dots as the emitting layer achieved a highest external efficiency of 10.3% and a peak luminance of 99,369 cd/m².
Advancements in Quantum Dot Fabrication
The foundation of this research is an innovative new technology known as direct optical lithography (DOL). This highly novel approach permits the ultra-high resolution patterning of quantum dots using just light, without requiring photoresist at all. This powerful new technique allows the most detailed control of the QD structure ever achieved. As a result, it boasts an incredible scanning resolution of nearly 2 μm, or 6,350 DPI.
This acute level of precision helps to create the all-around performance of quantum dot displays, delivering superior stability and long-lasting durability. To confirm their discoveries, the research team performed multiple rounds of deep ligand-crosslinking and solvent immersion experiments. The upcoming solvent immersion test was able to take incredible imaging of these different QD films on silicon substrates. This encompassed pristine QD films, QD films crosslinked with TBBT, and BPDT crosslinking.
KSU Professor Jong-Soo Lee, who led the work, highlighted the importance of these breakthroughs in his comments on the research results.
“This research not only increases resolution, but also proposes a method for stable fabrication that preserves the intrinsic optical and electrical properties of QDs, along with clear criteria for material selection. We expect it will greatly accelerate the commercialization of next-generation displays such as AR and VR.” – Professor Jong-Soo Lee
Implications for Future Display Technologies
This included the DGIST research team’s reported technological advancements. These technical innovations are poised to disrupt the display industry. As augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies continue to evolve, the demand for high-resolution displays will only intensify. The improved performance aspects of QLED devices using this new DOL tech would serve those purposes far better.
These proposed criteria for material selection will have a big impact on research to come. They will help steer practice development in the field. This research addresses efficiency and stability concerns pervasive in quantum dot-based applications. In doing so, it sets the bar for next-generation display technologies.
Research Publication and Future Directions
The findings from this groundbreaking study were published under DOI: 10.1021/acs.nanolett.5c01926, marking a significant contribution to the field of energy science and engineering. This study further emphasizes the awe-inspiring capabilities that quantum dots have on the future of display technologies. It opens the door for future innovations to improve visual experiences on connected devices of all types.