According to a paper published in Nature (a research journal) by Samsung researchers, Dr. Eunjoo Jang and Dr. Yu-Ho Won, Samsung has developed a new method to extend the lifetime and efficiency of quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs). Hence, Samsung might be able to commercialize them at some point in the future.
The Korean Giant took up this project about 10 years ago but dropped it in the process. According to the Company, the burn-in of the materials used was far too high, leading to a shorter lifespan of the devices.
However, the team led by Dr. Eunjoo Jang and Dr. Yu-Ho Won at Samsung Advanced Institute of Technology has finally improved the structure of quantum dot LEDs that are made out of environmentally-friendly indium phosphide, instead of toxic cadmium.
The proposed structure of the quantum dot reduces the oxidation process greatly and builds an asymmetrical and thick shell around the dot to prevent energy leaks. The overall efficiency has been improved by 21.4%. Apart from this, the Company has filed more than 170 patents on element structure in QLEDs.
Even though Samsung has announced the commercialization of QLEDs in the near future, we believe displays that use a quantum dot (QD) as the light source still have a long way to go. Since the structure is not the only challenge that needs to be tackled.
Indium phosphide cannot reach the performance of cadmium when it comes to being used as the direct light source in actual practice.
Currently, Samsung is using QLED technology in its flagship TVs, however, these are Cadmium-free and they do not use QD as the light sources rather QDs are being used as a film on the LCDs.
