KAIST flexible vertical micro LEDs

Researchers from Korea's KAIST developed flexible vertical micro-LEDs (f-VLEDs) using anisotropic conductive film (ACF)-based transfer and interconnection technology.

The researchers developed their own transfer equipment and used it to fabricate a 50x50 array of f-VLEDs using simultaneous transfer and interconnection through the precise alignment of ACF bonding process. The researchers report that the micro-LEDs achieved an optical power density of 30 mW/mm2 - which is three times higher than that of lateral micro LEDs. The LEDs offer improving thermal reliability and lifetime by reducing heat generation within the thin film LEDs.

These new flexible-VLEDs have possible applications in the display market, but the researchers also say that these can be suited for biomedical applications.

In September 2016, KAIST established a start-up company called FFRONICS that will commercialize KAIST's flexible sensor and wearable technologies, and it seems that Fronics is now also set to develop this flexible Micro-LED technology