Samsung Display (SDC) and LG Display (LGD), prominent players in the display industry, are exploring ways to enhance the efficiency and lifespan of their mid-sized OLED panels. They're considering incorporating specialized layers called "Refractive Capping Layers (CPL)" with lower refractive indices.
Industry insiders, as reported by Theelec, a South Korean source, reveal that SDC and LGD are actively discussing the use of "low refractive index CPL" on their mid-sized OLED panels. They're also in the process of testing CPL with various OLED material suppliers.
CPL is a protective layer applied to the positive electrode of OLED emission layers. Its purpose is to reduce losses caused by repeated light reflection between electrodes, allowing more light to be emitted towards the display. Currently, most small to mid-sized OLED panels use high refractive index CPL to minimize power consumption.
Interestingly, SDC and LGD are planning to employ both high and low refractive index CPL simultaneously on their mid-sized OLEDs. This innovative approach aims to synergize light loss reduction and enhance luminous efficiency.
However, integrating low refractive index CPL onto mid-sized OLEDs requires an additional layer, potentially leading to higher production costs and technical challenges. Furthermore, convincing major clients such as Samsung Electronics and Apple is crucial for SDC and LGD to adopt the low refractive index CPL solution.
On a parallel note, Korean companies like Dongjin Semichem, Laebto, P&H TECH, along with Japan's Hodogaya Chemical, prominent CPL suppliers, are also recognizing the potential of the low refractive index CPL market.
Reports indicate that companies developing low refractive index CPL have already provided samples to panel manufacturers. In the future, these advancements hold promise for priority integration into smartphones, IT devices, and similar technologies.
In the context of recent years' focus on high refractive index CPL for production, Dongjin Semichem, Laebto, and Hodogaya Chemical are all part of SDC's supply chain, while P&H TECH aligns with LGD's supply chain network.