The Role of Reverse Intersystem Crossing Using a TADF‐Type Acceptor Molecule on the Device Stability of Exciplex‐Based Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes

Abstract Exciplex system exhibiting thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) holds a considerable potential to improve organic light‐emitting diode (OLED) performances. However, the operational lifetime of current exciplex‐based devices, unfortunately, falls far behind the requirement for commercialization. Herein, rationally choosing a TADF‐type electron acceptor molecule is reported as a new strategy to enhance OLEDs' operating lifetime. A comprehensive study of the exciplex system containing 9,9′,9′′‐triphenyl‐9H,9′H,9′′H‐3,3′:6′,3′′‐tercarbazole (Tris‐PCz) and triazine (TRZ) derivatives clarifies the relationship between unwanted carrier recombination on acceptor molecules, TADF property of acceptors, and the device degradation event. By employing a proposed “exciton recycling” strategy, a threefold increased operational lifetime can be achieved while still maintaining high‐performance OLED properties. In particular, a stable blue OLED that employs this strategy is successfully demonstrated. This research provides an important step for exciplex‐based devices toward the significant improvement of operational stability.