Turning Linear to Circular: Recyclable Light-Emission Devices

Research question

The project will close-the-loop for sustainable critical raw material-free artificial lighting, in the form of light-emitting electrochemical cells (LEC). The material- and energy-efficient ambient-air printing of these devices has already been demonstrated, making fabrication in local low-cost facilities possible. Here the design will be turned circular through material innovation enabling disassembly and reuse of device components, including potential replacement of fossil-based components with biobased alternatives.

Following research questions will be investigated: Can reversible glue be the key to fabrication of circular LEC devices to recover and reuse the barrier layer, the major component (> 90%) of the device? Is it possible to develop a green and sustainable process to recover the remaining layers and components in the device, what is their condition and which of the components can be reused for fabrication of new devices? Is it possible to develop a biobased alternative to replace the current barrier layer without loss of performance?

Sustainability aspects

The rapid development and expanding utilization of advanced electronic products enables global prosperity, but the dependency on non-sustainable and rare materials and a few extremely expensive fabrication facilities, in combination with inadequate recycling, is a point of concern from both an environmental and a geopolitical perspective. The circular design has high importance as mass production of multicomponent products with relatively short service-life risks the accumulation of plastic and electronic waste. The circular LEC will utilize less harmful compounds and greener fabrication processes, reduce the need of virgin raw materials and decrease pollution and waste accumulation.