Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) Display Technology for Military Aircraft

In Phase I, a desiccant-free, thin-film encapsulation method on OLED devices will be implemented that improves display performance, both in terms of the life of the device as well as the cost of manufacturing. Specifically, a novel thin-film layer structure using vacuum deposition will demonstrate negligible moisture permeation (<5 x 10-7 g/m2/day) under 85 degrees C and 85% RH. The reduction in moisture permeation will significantly improve device life. It is generally agreed upon in the OLED community that OLEDs on flexible substrates or on roll-to-roll substrates require, at a minimum, moisture permeation rate of < 10-6 g/m2/day. A measurement of the permeation rate before demonstration on live OLED devices (to be conducted during the Phase I option) will significantly reduce cost and time in establishing the efficacy of the thin-film layer structures. Eliminating the dessicant materials and the additional process steps required by current sealant technologies will reduce manufacturing costs.