Quantum dot light-emitting devices

Abstract

Colloidal semiconductor nanocrystals, also known as "quantum dots" (QDs), represent an example of a disruptive technology for display and lighting applications. The QDs' high luminescence efficiency and precisely tunable, narrow emission are nearly ideal for achieving saturated colors and enriching the display or TV color gamut. Quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) can provide saturated emission colors and allow inexpensive solution-based device fabrication on almost any substrate. The first incorporation of QDs into the consumer market is using them as optical down-converters. Blue light from an efficient high energy light source (e.g., GaN blue LED) is absorbed and reemitted at any desired lower energy wavelength. Alternatively, electric current can be used for direct excitation of QDs. QLEDs are an exciting technical challenge and commercial opportunity for display and solid-state lighting applications. Recent developments in the field show that efficiency and brightness of QLEDs can match those of organic LEDs. © 2013 Materials Research Society.