Use of Field Concentration for Electroluminescent Devices

Field concentration is often regarded as a problematic issue in soft electronics applications, especially when using curved electrodes, and in particular, those with sharp edges. However, field concentration can be turned into an advantage with appropriate device design. Herein, the applications of field concentration in hydrogel-elastomer devices are explored. Three different types of electroluminescent hydrogel-elastomer devices are fabricated using different types of electrodes and different light patterns. In addition, the effect of the field concentration can be extended into the bulk of the elastomer by preparing porous silicone elastomers and filling them with silicone oil. These devices are shown to be flexible and possess both good luminance and a long lifetime.