Luminance behaviour of PLEDs with integration of nanomaterials

Incorporation of nanomaterials in device structure is the key to enhance performance of polymer light emitting diodes (PLEDs). The major challenges that impede competence of PLEDs, for application in display technology, are (i) non-availability of stable low work function metals to act as cathode, (ii) presence of charge trapping centers in the polymer chains and (iii) total internal reflection of light at ITO/glass and glass/air interfaces. The foremost problem leads to increase in turn ON voltage of the device and reduction in electron injection from cathode. Low injection and high trapping probability of electrons lead to charge imbalance in the emissive layer and shifting of recombination zone towards cathode. This immensely constrains the formation and radiative decay of excitons in the emissive layer and declines the luminosity of the device. In this review, experimental studies on the integration of nanomaterials in PLED structures to enhance device luminance are presented. The diverse impact of their geometric features, ionization potential, electrical conductivity and refractive index on the carrier transport and light extraction in PLEDs is discussed and a perspective on this evolving research path is provided.

Automated summary

Incorporating nanomaterials in device structure is crucial to enhance the performance of polymer light emitting diodes (PLEDs), however, challenges such as the non-availability of stable low work function metals for cathode, presence of charge trapping centers in polymer chains, and total internal reflection of light at interfaces hinder the competence of PLEDs. These issues impact electron injection, luminosity, and charge balance in the device, affecting the formation and decay of excitons in the emissive layer.