The U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science has awarded two Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grants targeting advances in solid-state lighting (SSL) technology. The FY14 Phase I Release 1 awards will explore the technical merit or feasibility of an innovative concept or technology.

The SBIR and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program seeks to increase the participation of small businesses in federal R&D. To learn more about this program, visit http://science.energy.gov/sbir/.

The SBIR/STTR Phase I Release 1 awards related to SSL are briefly described below:

SBIR Recipient: MicroContinuum, Inc.
Title: R2R Production of Low-Cost Integrated OLED Substrate with Improved Transparent Conductor & Enhanced Light Outcoupling
Summary: This project will demonstrate the incorporation of nanoscale features inside and outside OLED devices to allow higher output; the improvement of transparent conductor characteristics for higher OLED electrical efficiency and light uniformity; the use of substrates with improved barrier properties to prevent OLED degradation; and the development of innovative, low-cost roll-to-roll manufacturing technology for the production of OLED lighting panels.

SBIR Recipient: Pixelligent Technologies LLC
Title: Advanced Light Extraction Material for OLED Lighting
Summary: This team, including OLEDWorks, will demonstrate a cost-effective, high-refractive-index nanocomposite formulation to function as a key part of an internal light-extraction structure that will be fully compatible with OLED device manufacturing process and operation conditions and can expedite the commercialization of white OLED lighting.