Approaches to Solution-Processed Multilayer Organic Light-Emitting Diodes Based on Cross-Linking

The fabrication of multilayer organic light-emitting diodes through solution processing presents challenges, especially regarding dissolution of the first layer during deposition of a second layer. One possible approach to this problem is to insolubilize the first layer using cross-linking. Cross-linking has also been used to control the morphological stability and aggregation phenomena of the active organic materials. In this short review, we discuss the alternative chemically, thermally, and photochemically promoted cross-linking chemistries that have been examined in the context of organic light-emitting diodes including: the hydrolysis of silicon compounds to form siloxanes; the polymerization of styrene, acrylate, and oxetane groups; and the dimerization of trifluorovinyl ethers, benzocyclobutenes, and cinnamates.