Schott cooperates to optimize ultra-thin polymer diodes

Mainz, Germany (ots) - The introduction of super-flat displays and lighting solutions based on organic light-emitting diodes has just come one step closer. Working closely with scientists at the University of Potsdam, Schott researchers have been able to increase the luminescence of organic light emitting diodes (OLEDs) to such an extent that the brightness of 100 Cd/m2 required for flat screens may be obtained with voltages under six volts. At the same time, they were able to decrease the current over an area measuring 10x10 cm2 to just 40 mA. By way of contrast, a small flashlight consumes around ten times as much energy.

This breakthrough was made possible by way of targeted optimization of the layer composition and the various stages of the manufacturing process. At present, the research term is further investigating the life expectancy and long-term stability of these high-performance components, since their behavior over the long term is critical for industrial applications at a later date. Possible uses are in automobile instrumentation or as a replacement for conventional light sources, in IT products and consumer electronics.

The project has the support of the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).

OLEDs may be used as thin lights with an extremely homogenous luminescence. They are composed of light-emitting layers of organic molecules or polymers only nanometers thick, characterized by an exceptional brightness and color brilliance. In addition, they are both very flexible and light, with an angle of emission significantly larger than that of LCD systems. While their production costs may still be higher and their life expectancy shorter than desired, renowned teams of researchers around the world are working on their further development and on optimizing the manufacturing techniques. Within the next three to four years, OLEDs will already have a considerable share of the global display market - amounting to an estimated three billion US dollars. The growth rate is estimated at somewhere between 12 and 18 % over the same period.

SCHOTT is an international technology group that sees its core purpose as the lasting improvement of living and working conditions. For this purpose special materials, components and systems are developed. The main areas of focus are the household appliances industry, optics and opto-electronics, pharmaceuticals and regenerative energies. The SCHOTT Group has a presence in proximity to its customers through its production and sales companies in all its major markets. It has 19,000 employees producing worldwide sales of 2 billion euros. The company's technological and economic expertise is closely linked with its social and ecological responsibility.