Organic Light Emiting Diodes
Every once in a while a new material really captures my imagination , and this OLED (Organic Light Emiting Diodes) technology being developed by GE is one for sure. Surface applications where back lighting is not possible... lit undulating, flowing surfaces... vehicle applications... not to mention the effeciency: up to four times better than an incandescent bulb.
GE announced this week that they are going to accelerate the development and commercialization of OLED devices for lighting applications. The goal is to bring OLED lighting to market within the next 3 years.
OLEDs are thin, organic materials sandwiched between two electrodes, which illuminate when an electrical charge is applied. They represent the next evolution in lighting products. Their widespread design capabilities will provide an entirely different way for people to light their homes or businesses. Moreover, OLEDs have the potential to deliver dramatically improved levels of efficiency and environmental performance, while achieving at least the same quality of illumination found in traditional products in the marketplace today.
Two interesting videos demonstrate the product as it exists in development. The first (above) describes the product and how it is made (newspaper printing processes to create electronic devices!!). And the second after the jump demonstrates the physical properties and flexibility of the technology.
Link: GE Global Research
Link: From Edison's Desk - A Perspective on OLEDs
OLED Display Manufacturer