Glass Substrates for Flat Panel Displays

Abstract

One material exists in most types of flat panel displays that are used in high information content applications, from liquid crystal displays to electroluminescent displays. This material is glass, something we all use daily. As a substrate, glass plays a significant role in the manufacture and function of flat panel displays (FPDs). In the case of active-matrix liquid crystal displays (AMLCDs), the semiconductor-based thin-film transistors (TFTs) or diodes are fabricated on the active glass substrate. In addition, AMLCDs require color-filter structures consisting of dyed or pigmented resins built upon the passive plate of an AMLCD cell. For plasma and electroluminescent display panels, the glass provides the surface upon which are deposited phosphors, conductive lines, and dielectrics.The excellent properties of glass make it the substrate of choice in FPDs. It is the only material that can meet the demanding requirements of high-information-content FPD manufacturing processes and operation. Glass' transparency is an obvious requirement. For all types of displays, the rigidity of glass also plays a important role because it adds overall mechanical integrity and strength.One of the most important attributes of glass in terms of the display manufacturing process is its thermal stability. Glass substrates, particularly those made of “hard” or high temperature glasses, can be processed at elevated temperatures with minimal deformation. In addition, the dimensional precision required in the alignment of various display components is maintained throughout the specific manufacturing processes.