Simulation of Electron Trapping in Polymer Light-Emitting Diodes
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Electron trapping in polymer light-emitting diodes (PLEDs) operated at constant voltage results in a decrease of current and light emission over many minutes, and the decline becomes more pronounced with decreasing temperature. This seems to contradict the established electron trap formation scenario, which is temperature-activated and therefore decelerates when cooling down. Numerical simulations are performed on the device characteristics of pristine PLEDs and during operation, i.e., when electron traps form. The experimental current and emission trends are explained by a temperature-dependent variation of the trap occupancy, which is determined by the temperature-dependent charge mobilities and capture rates. Matching the simulated electron trap density between the PLED and the electron-only device requires a very slow electron capture rate, which is reasoned by the specific electron trap formation process in semiconducting polymers.
Source: ACS Omega
Language: English
Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,935
OpenAlex ID: W7225414307