Transfer-printed, tandem microscale light-emitting diodes for full-color displays

Inorganic semiconductor-based microscale light-emitting diodes (micro-LEDs) have been widely considered the key solution to next-generation, ubiquitous lighting and display systems, with their efficiency, brightness, contrast, stability, and dynamic response superior to liquid crystal or organic-based counterparts. However, the reduction of micro-LED sizes leads to the deteriorated device performance and increased difficulties in manufacturing. Here, we report a tandem device scheme based on stacked red, green, and blue (RGB) micro-LEDs, for the realization of full-color lighting and displays. Thin-film micro-LEDs (size -100 ?m, thickness -5 ?m) based on III?V compound semiconductors are vertically assembled via epitaxial liftoff and transfer printing. A thin-film dielectric-based optical filter serves as a wavelength-selective interface for performance enhancement. Furthermore, we prototype arrays of tandem RGB micro-LEDs and demonstrate display capabilities. These materials and device strategies provide a viable path to advanced lighting and display systems.

Automated summary

Inorganic semiconductor-based microscale light-emitting diodes (micro-LEDs) are proposed as the key solution for next-generation, ubiquitous lighting and display systems, with stacked red, green, and blue (RGB) micro-LEDs demonstrating full-color lighting and displays. Prototype arrays of tandem RGB micro-LEDs show enhanced performance and display capabilities, providing a viable path to advanced lighting and display systems.