World's smallest LED
Nano-OLEDs could bring screens to a new level of sharpness
ETH researchers have reduced organic light-emitting diodes to nano size – a development that could take displays and optical applications to a new level of precision.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed the world's smallest organic light-emitting diodes. These so-called nano-OLEDs are so tiny that a hundred of them can fit side by side within the diameter of a human cell.
OLEDs are currently used in high-end smartphones and televisions. According to ETH, the new nano-OLEDs are up to 50 times smaller than previous OLED pixels. This allows pixels to be arranged much more densely than before. Pixels measuring 100 to 200 nanometres form the basis for ultra-high-resolution displays, such as in glasses that show razor-sharp images directly in front of the eye.
Potential for biosensors and mini lasers
New possibilities are also opening up in microscopy: as a light source, nano-OLEDs could illuminate tiny areas and enable highly detailed images. Researchers also see potential in medical technology, for example in biosensors that can detect signals from individual nerve cells.
Since the pixels are smaller than the wavelength of visible light, optical effects can be used in a targeted manner – for example, to bundle or direct light for mini lasers or holographic displays.
The nano-OLEDs were manufactured using a new process that positions molecules with extreme precision. Thin ceramic membranes made of silicon nitride serve as templates and enable unprecedented miniaturisation in a single production step.
