Dielectric layer structure and performance

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CLEARink Displays Corporation is a Vancouver technology start-up developing new display technology. Their**technology is an alternative to liquid crystal displays and organic light emitting diodes which operate with**significant power consumption. CLEARink has developed a novel reflective display technology that offers**video rate capability with ultra-low power consumption. Their technology is based on the use of charged**particles in a fluid to control the reflectivity of ambient light from its novel reflector films. When charged**particles are in the vicinity of the reflector film, reflectivity is hindered, providing image contrast. Control over**of the charged particle location is achieved by applying small voltages to thin conductor and dielectric layers**deposited onto their proprietary reflectors. Fine control of particle location and mobility in response to the**applied fields is critical for display performance, but can be affected by the properties of the conductor and**dielectric layers. CLEARink is seeking to further optimize this control in order to improve contrast, and device**response time. Here, we propose to address these issues by examining the materials properties of the dielectric**thin films and their connection to display performance. The fabrication and characterization capabilities**available at SFU's 4D LABS in conjunction with our expertise in surface science and materials chemistry make**this partnership with CLEARink ideal. Using scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, x-ray**photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, and contact angle measurements, the quality of dielectric**layers will be assessed in relation to device performance. Working closely with CLEARink technical staff, we**will investigate device performance with dielectric films of different thickness, and where the dielectric films**have been further modified through further chemical modification. The expected outcomes of this project are to**provide CLEARink with improved control over their display characteristics and to accelerate their path to**commercial production. This will provide broader benefits to Canada through enhanced employment**opportunities, wealth generation, and pave the way for further high technology development opportunities.