Intrinsically‐Stretchable and Patternable Quantum Dot Color Conversion Layers for Stretchable Displays in Robotic Skin and Wearable Electronics
K. W. Kim, D. Kim, Doh-Yeon Kim, Dohyeon Kim, Dohyeon Kim, Hyeon Hwa Song, Seungmin Lee, Yong‐Hoon Choi, Kyunghoon Lee, Gwang Heon Lee, Jinhee Lee, Hye Hyun Kim, Eonhyoung Ahn, Jae Hong Jang, Yaewon Kim, Hyo Cheol Lee, Yunho Kim, Soo Ik Park, Jisu Yoo, Youngsik Lee, Jongnam Park, Dae‐Hyeong Kim, Dae‐Hyeong Kim, Moon Kee Choi, Jiwoong Yang
Abstract
Stretchable displays are essential components as signal outputs in next-generation stretchable electronics, particularly for robotic skin and wearable device technologies. Intrinsically-stretchable and patternable color conversion layers (CCLs) offer practical solutions for developing full-color stretchable micro-light-emitting diode (LED) displays. However, significant challenges remain in creating stretchable and patternable CCLs without backlight leakage under mechanical deformation. Here, a novel material strategy for stretchable and patternable heavy-metal-free quantum dot (QD) CCLs, potentially useful for robotic skin and wearable electronics is presented. Through a versatile crosslinking technique, uniform and high-concentration QD loading in the elastomeric polydimethylsiloxane matrix without loss of optical properties is achieved. These CCLs demonstrate excellent color conversion capabilities with minimal backlight leakage, even under 50% tensile strain. Additionally, fine-pixel patterning process with resolutions up to 300 pixels per inch is compatible with the QD CCLs, suitable for high-resolution stretchable display applications. The integration of these CCLs with micro-LED displays is also demonstrated, showcasing their use in haptic-responsive robotic skin and wearable healthcare monitoring sensors. This study offers a promising material preparation methodology for stretchable QDs/polymer composites and highlights their potential for advancing flexible and wearable light-emitting devices.