Polar Light Technologies (PLT) has revolutionized the manufacturing of pyramid-shaped microLEDs through a new bottom-up method. This method enables controlled crystal growth atom layer by atom layer, which has eliminated the destructive etching used in today's top-down methods. This has resulted in unsurpassed pixel size, brightness, and energy efficiency.
Polar Light Technologies has its roots in long and unique research conducted by Professor Per-Olof Holtz and his research group at Linköping University, before the company was founded in 2014. However, it wasn't until around 2021 that the company came out of "stealth mode" and in connection with that began collaborating with RISE.
The Challenge: Need for Advanced Equipment
When PLT first came into contact with RISE, they faced a significant challenge where they needed assistance with processing their pyramid structures. At a later stage, they also needed a more advanced and modern MOCVD for manufacturing their unique pyramid structures.
"The choice fell on RISE because of their competence and access to necessary process equipment as well as MOCVD reactor. "RISE has a good reputation and highly educated staff. They had exactly what we needed," says Oskar Fajerson, CEO at PLT.
Collaboration leads to success
The collaboration with RISE has been extensive and included both cultivation with MOCVD and processing of the advanced microLED structures.
"We have had a good collaboration with RISE in both Lund and Kista," says Fajerson.
Together, PLT and RISE have made great progress.
"RISE has been an important part in realizing our blue, green, and red microLEDs," explains Fajerson. "They have made this possible with adequate equipment that we didn't have access to before."
RISE's contribution has been invaluable for PLT.
"We have gained access to an advanced MOCVD in Sweden, which has been important for developing our pyramidal concept," says Fajerson.
Lessons and Future Opportunities
Through the collaboration, PLT has learned which parameters are important for the processing and cultivation of microLEDs, which are important parameters when they later invest in their own reactor.
"The collaboration with RISE has strengthened our competitiveness and ability to deliver societal benefit."
A Game Changer for Society
MicroLEDs are important for society, where next-generation displays and micro-projectors with smaller, brighter, and more efficient microLEDs will be a game changer. They draw less power and contribute to reducing energy consumption in displays. The collaboration with RISE has also opened up new opportunities for continued work.
"The competence within RISE is high, and we have gone from MOCVD to processing and also some product design," concludes Fajerson.
Contact at Polar Light Technologies
For more information, contact Oskar Fajerson at oskar.fajerson@polar-light-technologies.com or 0738193800.
