Solution-processed organic thin films based on aggregation-induced emission materials

It is an attractive topic to realize flexible panel based on organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) by low cost solution processing. Solution-processed small-molecule OLEDs can be a potential approach and its development needs more intensive studies. Meanwhile, the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) materials have been studied promising candidates for high performance OLEDs. Recently, we have synthesized the AIE materials with good solubility, high thermal stability and facile process. To assess the feasibility of developing solution processing and to fabricate OLEDs based on these AIE materials, in this study the underlying nature of the solution-processed thin films is initiated compared to that of vacuum-deposited counterparts. Here, the characteristics of thin films as prepared by solution processing, such as the photophysical property, morphology, molecular packing density and band structure, are given. The results show that the quality of solution-processed films is similar to that of their vacuum-deposited analogues. It demonstrates that one can employ the solution-processed method to prepare the high performance light emitting thin films using the AIE materials, we have developed.

► Solution processing was employed to prepare organic thin films.
► Organic films are based on aggregation-induced emission (AIE) small molecule.
► The characteristics of as-prepared films have been comprehensively investigated.
► The performance of solution-processed films is similar to vacuum-deposited films.
► Solution methods suitable to employ and to prepare devices based on AIE material.