Optimization of polymer light emitting devices using TiOx electron transport layers and prism sheets

The internal and external efficiency of polymer light emitting devices were found can be simultaneously improved by insertion a high refractive index material, titanium oxide (TiOx), to the emission layer and a prism sheet attached to the substrate. The TiOx layer increased the internal efficiency due to a better electron injection and hole confinement. However, it led a wider angular emission profile with more photons trapped in the substrate. By using the prism sheet, those trapped light was efficiently coupled to the air. The extraction efficiency enhancement was increased from 33.1% to 54.4% and the overall current efficiency was improved up to 86%.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A new approach to increase the internal and extraction efficiency of PLEDs. ► An effective means to tune the cavity effect without electricity degradation. ► Optimization of external quantum efficiency of PLEDs. ► The overall current efficiency was increased up to 86.0%.