The new generation of liquid crystal displays

4 November 2009

A new generation of flat panel displays is being developed with the help of experts at the University of Hull, which may ultimately supersede Liquid Crystal Displays (LCDs). The first stable liquid crystals were invented at the University’s chemistry department in 1971.

Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) are devices that can be used for small screen mobile displays, lighting and TVs.

Industry giants such as Sony, LG and Kodak amongst others are developing screens that are just millimetres thick and have a far sharper picture than plasma or LCD screens. Unlike existing screens which need a backlight, OLED pixels radiate light, making them far more energy efficient.

Although the first OLED TVs are already being manufactured, they are on sale in low volume and their price tag is still comparatively high. The materials being developed by the University of Hull may be far more cost effective to manufacture and are different in make-up from the OLEDs currently being developed elsewhere.

Sony and Kodak are using a small molecule approach which is difficult to scale-up and can only be deposited on glass surfaces. Others are using ink jet printing methods to produce small size displays, but resolution becomes an issue at larger sizes. The materials for devices being developed by the University however are scalable, high resolution and can be manufactured on a variety of surfaces such as flexible plastic.

The work from the University has attracted investment from IP Group and together they have formed a company called Polar OLED Ltd. Bringing academic and commercial minds together, a unique approach has been created which will be invaluable to companies producing OLED displays in large quantities.

Professor Steve Kelly is from the University’s Chemistry department. He worked with Professor George Gray who pioneered the original liquid crystal research. He says: “I remember how rewarding it was to work with liquid crystals in the 1970s; to see how our work led to a new era in TV manufacturing – from the bulky cathode ray tube to the streamlined liquid crystal displays – was quite spectacular. What we are experiencing with OLED technology is just as much of a seismic shift and to be a part of this cutting-edge optoelectronic research is immensely exciting.”

Working alongside Professor Kelly is Professor Mary O’Neill from the University’s Physics department. She says: “This is a rare opportunity to work across the disciplines of physics, chemistry and commerce to develop a device that will have widespread impact. I look forward to seeing our OLED materials being used extensively.”

Danny Lynham, investment manager for IP Group says: “We are truly excited about working with the University of Hull. OLED devices have huge commercial potential in the worldwide display market and we look forward to working closely with major strategic players to attract further interest and investment.”

Ends.