Japanese physicists have created polymers for cheap next-generation screens

Scientists have developed a method for producing electrically conductive polymers with a spiral configuration. The optical properties of the new materials can be useful in creating cheap screens and monitors.

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba used a liquid crystal matrix to create polymers with a spiral structure. The polymers created are optically active, luminescent and can emit light with circular polarization.

To create the polymers, physicists placed monomers in liquid crystals with a straight configuration. The scientists found that when exposed to the new molecules, the LC structure is twisted like a spiral. The developers exposed the new structure to electricity for polymerization. The LC pattern was then removed, leaving the polymer frozen in its helical shape.

The developers tested their polymer using circular dichroism absorption spectroscopy. The test results showed that the new material has strong optical activity in the visible wavelength range.

The researchers believe that the polymer they created could compete with OLED displays and serve as the basis for cheap and energy-efficient screens of the next generation.