Recent advances in flexible alternating current electroluminescent devices

Since its first discovery by Destriau in oil dispersion of ZnS:Cu phosphors, alternating current electroluminescence (ACEL) has found enormous applications in lighting, full-color displays, and optoelectronics. ACEL materials are particularly useful for constructing flexible light-emitting devices owing to their low cost and easy integration with flexible electrodes and polymer substrates. ACEL devices utilizing the phosphor-elastomer composite as the emissive layer are intrinsically stretchable/deformable, in contrast to direct current light-emitting diodes that are often built on rigid panels. In this Research Update, we summarize recent advances in the design and preparation of various flexible-panel ACEL devices. Emerging applications enabled by these flexible ACEL devices are also highlighted.