Research Paper: High-Resolution Reverse Offset Printed Electroluminescent Multipixel Arrays for Scalable Future Wearable Displays
Summary
This research addresses critical challenges of resolution limitations and fringe effects in electroluminescent (EL) displays, particularly for wearable applications. The main goal was to investigate how pixel size and spacing influence lighting performance and to introduce reverse offset printing (ROP) as a method for fabricating high-resolution EL multipixel arrays. COMSOL simulations were used to guide optimal pixel design, showing that reducing pixel size enhances electric field strength, but optimal spacing is crucial to mitigate fringe effects. Key findings demonstrate that ROP, employed for the first time in this context, offers significant advantages over conventional screen printing. ROP achieved a 96% reduction in pixel size and up to 10 times higher luminous intensity. It enabled 100 μm resolution and simplified fabrication by allowing effective operation without a transparent top conductor in smaller pixels. The fabricated devices exhibited excellent flexibility and long-term stability.
Why it matters
This study is crucial for advancing wearable display technology by providing a scalable and cost-effective method for producing high-resolution, flexible EL displays. ROP's ability to create smaller, brighter pixels with high precision directly overcomes major limitations of conventional printing methods. This breakthrough paves the way for next-generation smart textiles and visual interfaces that are more energy-efficient and durable than existing solutions like OLEDs, contributing significantly to the commercial viability of flexible electronics.
How Fluxim tools used
The Paios characterization platform was utilised to measure the emission spectrum of the EL pixels. This enabled researchers to precisely determine the spectral distribution of the light emitted from both screen-printed and ROP-printed pixels, confirming a sharp peak around 460 nm. This capability ensures an accurate assessment of the light quality and performance consistency of the fabricated displays.
Publication Details
Dai, H., Xia, Y., Beeby, S. and Torah, R. (2025), High‐Resolution Reverse Offset Printed Electroluminescent Multipixel Arrays for Scalable Future Wearable Displays. Adv Eng Mater. https://doi.org/10.1002/adem.202500582