Development of innovative photonic nanostructures to improve organic electroluminescence properties

Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are currently one of the dominant technologies in the display industry and are promising for a variety of other applications including lighting and healthcare. The most recent generation of OLEDs is based on the principle of thermally-activated delayed fluorescence (TADF). These materials have been successfully used in devices emitting in the visible and near infrared spectral range. Recent studies suggest that some photonic nanostructures can be used to control the photophysical properties of TADF emitters and improve further their device performances. The student will investigate the photophysical properties of organic TADF thin films using a broad range of analysis tools such as steady-state and time-resolved photoluminescence measurements. In particular, they will examine the influence of different types of photonic nanostructures on the dielectric environment of the TADF emitters and their photophysical properties. They will also fabricate and characterize TADF OLEDs to evaluate their performances and relate their electro-optical properties to the photophysics of the films. The successful outcome of this project will generate new fundamental knowledge about TADF OLEDs and should have significant societal benefits since it will contribute to our essential efforts to solve the energy crisis and accelerate our transition to a sustainable future.