Quantum dot discovery for LEDs brings brighter, more eco-friendly displays

New research by Curtin University has achieved a breakthrough in eco-friendly display technology, creating highly efficient and stable blue quantum dot LEDs (QLEDs) that could power the next generation of televisions, smartphones, VR headsets and energy-efficient lighting - without using toxic heavy metals.

The study, titled "Homogeneous ZnSeTeS quantum dots for efficient and stable pure-blue LEDs," was published in Nature.

Study author Associate Professor Guohua Jia from Curtin's School of Molecular and Life Sciences said QLEDs are a futuristic display technology known for their superior brightness, color accuracy, lifetime and energy efficiency compared to traditional LEDs. However, creating stable and efficient blue QLEDs without toxic materials like cadmium has until now been a major challenge.

"Our research team has developed a new type of quantum dot that matches or even outperforms traditional cadmium-based QLEDs, but in a safer and more sustainable way," Associate Professor Jia said.

"Our quantum dots emit a pure and vibrant blue light with an impressive 24.7% efficiency, which is among the highest recorded for blue QLEDs.

"They also last for nearly 30,000 hours, making them a promising step toward more durable and environmentally friendly display technology."

Associate Professor Jia said the researchers achieved this by fine-tuning the structure of the quantum dots at an atomic level, reducing defects that can interfere with light emission.

"This approach allowed us to create more uniform quantum dots, improving both brightness and stability," Associate Professor Jia said.