Rise of intrinsically stretchable electroluminescent materials: toward free-form displays

Abstract

Intrinsically stretchable light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are foundational components for next-generation free-form displays. Here, we present recent advances in electroluminescent materials for intrinsically stretchable LEDs, including molecular plasticizer-light-emitting polymer blends, elastomer-light-emitting polymer integration, thermally activated delayed fluorescence polymers, and inorganic semiconductor nanocrystals-elastomer composites. Critical challenges-improving luminous efficiency, stability, patterning, and developing stretchable electrodes and transport layers-are discussed, providing clear pathways toward practical applications.