Light emission moves into the blue

Abstract

Light-Emitting devices based on semiconductors have had a huge impact on modern technologies. The brightness and durability of light-emitting diodes make them ideal for displays, while semiconductor lasers have been used in everything from optical communications systems to compact disc players. But these applications have been limited by the lack of materials that can emit blue light efficiently. Full-colour displays, for example, require at least three colours, usually red, green and blue, to produce any visible colour. Such a combination is also needed to make a white light-emitting device that would be more durable and use less power than conventional bulbs or fluorescent lamps.