Perovskite display technology trends and updates

Researchers have successfully showcased a second-generation digital display utilizing perovskite light-emitting diodes.

(Structure of AM PeLED. a, Micrograph of one single pixel in the TFT backplane showing the layout of TFT and LED area. b, The schematic diagram shows the control of LED by the 3T1C circuit. c, Structure diagram of the drive TFT and LED. d, e Cross-sectional scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of the drive TFT and ITO. Credit: Nature Electronics (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41928-024-01181-5)

Microelectronic engineers from multiple institutions in China, collaborating with a Swedish counterpart, have successfully showcased a second-generation digital display screen employing perovskite light-emitting diodes, departing from conventional LED technology.

In their study published in Nature Electronics, the team enhanced the device and showcased its sensing capability.

In April, a research team, including some of the same members, demonstrated a digital display screen using LEDs composed of perovskite rather than semiconductor compounds like gallium arsenide or indium gallium nitride. They also demonstrated that such screens could function as sensing devices.

In this new study, the researchers developed a digital display device utilizing perovskite light-emitting diode (PeLED) technology, achieving double the pixel resolution.

The materials currently used to manufacture LEDs possess qualities such as high acuity and sharpness. However, the technology has limitations, including an inability to function as a sensor, necessitating the use of additional components to bridge this gap.

Researchers have been investigating perovskite to overcome this limitation, as it can both emit and absorb light, allowing it to function as a sensing device. Incorporating PeLEDs into a phone could enable the screen to sense touch, fingerprints, and ambient light, eliminating the need for extra components.

(One-inch AM PeLEDs with a resolution of 90 PPI (pixel size 270 μm × 270 μm). a–c, Digital photographs of the red (a), green (b) and blue (c) emissive AM PeLEDs showing cartoon pictures. d–f, EL spectra of the red (d), green (e) and blue (f) emissive AM PeLEDs at various Vdd driving voltages, displaying a single peak with narrow full-width at half-maximum (FWHM). g–i, Transient EL intensities of red (g), green (h) and blue (i) emissive AM PeLEDs under various pulse durations. Credit: Nature Electronics (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41928-024-01181-5)

The new screen demonstrated by the research team featured a 90 ppi density, which, while significantly lower than that of current smartphone screens, represents progress toward achieving parity. It also exhibited a range of sensing capabilities. The researchers anticipate that such displays will have extended lifespans and lower energy consumption.

One major obstacle researchers must overcome is the stability of PeLEDs, as exposure to oxygen or moisture causes degradation, necessitating a solution before commercial application.

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