Organic Light Emitting Field Effect Transistors: Advances and Perspectives

Light emitting field effect transistors based on molecular and polymeric organic semiconductors are multifunctional devices that integrate light emission with the current modulating function of a transistor. The planar geometry of organic light emitting field effect transistors (OLEFETs) offers direct access to the light emission region, providing a unique experimental configuration to investigate fundamental optical and electronic properties in organic semiconductors. OLEFETs show great potential for technological applications such as active matrix full color electroluminescent displays. In this Feature Article we review advances in OLEFETs since their first demonstration in 2003 and we highlight exciting challenges associated with their future development. Light emitting field effect transistors based on molecular and polymeric organic semiconductors are multifunctional devices that integrate light emission with the current modulating function of a transistor. Organic light emitting field effect transistors (OLEFETs, see figure) show great potential for technological applications such as active matrix full color electroluminescent displays. We review advances in OLEFETs since their first demonstration in 2003 and we highlight exciting challenges associated with their future development.