Self-assembled crystalline semiconductor optoelectronics on glass and plastic

Abstract

In this paper, we demonstrate the integration of high-performance single crystalline inorganic μ-light emitting diodes (LEDs) onto unconventional substrates such as plastic and glass via self-assembly. AlGaAs-based free-standing red μ-LEDs were batch fabricated and released from their substrates for use in self-assembly. The templates for assembly were fabricated on substrates such as flexible plastics and glass. The self-assembly method is capable of positioning the micro-components onto the template in proper receptor sites with a high yield, and forming electrical connections between components and the template with 62% yield. The μ-LEDs remain functional even after significant bending and deformation of the plastic substrates. The self-assembly method offers a way to incorporate optoelectronics onto objects that are incompatible with conventional semiconductor manufacturing processes.