In Situ Quantifying the Physical Parameters Determining the Efficiency of OLEDs Relying on Triplet-Triplet Annihilation Up-Conversion

Triplet-triplet annihilation (TTA) up-conversion is an effective way to utilize triplet excitons in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). However, the parameters characterizing the triplet excitons and relevant TTA process in OLEDs under working conditions have not been quantified. Here, an in situ method is established to map these parameters for further ascertaining their impact on device efficiency. The physical parameters, including triplet recombination rate, TTA rate, typical current J(TTA), and saturated ratio, can be in situ quantified by transient electroluminescence technique. The expression of J(TTA) shows that minimizing the triplet quenching and maximizing the TTA rate are effective ways to lower J(TTA). While highly efficient devices require a lower J(TTA). Guided by these criteria, the device efficiency is promoted by weakening the triplet quenching via blending two materials. These investigations establish an in situ method to quantify the physical parameters that allow identifying the useful TTA materials and optimizing the design of device structures.

Automated summary

This article establishes an in situ method to quantify the parameters of triplet excitons and relevant TTA process in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Through transient electroluminescence technique, the physical parameters can be quantified in situ. The study finds that minimizing triplet quenching and maximizing TTA rate help lower J(TTA), and device efficiency is improved by weakening triplet quenching through blending two materials.