Materials for Next-Generation LED-Based Data Communications

University of Surrey and University of Cambridge, United Kingdom

Light-emitting diode (LED)-based communications techniques allow computing devices, including cellphones, to communicate with one another using infrared light. However, LED techniques are underused because in its current state, an LED transmits data at far slower speeds than other wireless technologies such as light-fidelity (Li-Fi).

Organic semiconductors, CQDs, and perovskites are promising materials that could be used in a number of optoelectronic applications.

Researchers have demonstrated how organic semiconductors, colloidal quantum dots (CQDs), and metal halide perovskites (perovskites) can be used in LED-based optical communications systems. The team explored efforts to improve the performance and efficiency of these LEDs and they considered their potential applications in on-chip interconnects and Li-Fi.

Although the conventional inorganic thin-film technologies are likely to continue to play a dominant role in optical communications, LEDs based on these materials can play a complementary role that could have a sizable impact on the industry. Future applications of LEDs will not be limited to the fields of lighting and displays. The team investigated deployment of real-world communication links using the LEDs from the material, device, and system aspects.

Photonic devices for the Internet of Things (IoT) and 6G communication systems need to be high-speed, low-cost, and easy to integrate. Organic semiconductors, CQDs, and perovskites are promising materials that could be used to complement and/or compete with conventional inorganic counterparts in particular optoelectronic applications.

For more information, contact Dr. Wei Zhang at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; +44 (0)1483 688707.