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LG Display introduces stretchable display technology

2024.12.03 05:39:13 DoGyoung Bae
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[Photo Credit to Unsplash]

In a significant advancement, LG Display has successfully developed a stretchable display that leads the industry in screen elasticity, marking a remarkable milestone in the realm of next-generation display technology. 

The company announced that its new screen can stretch by up to 50%, a milestone that was unveiled as a result of five years of dedicated research and development.

This innovative stretchable display is not only a technological breakthrough but also contributes to the national project goals by achieving not only material and component localization but also securing core technologies essential for future displays. 

Initially setting a goal of 20% stretchability, LG Display has significantly exceeded expectations by doubling the targeted stretch rate. This success is attributed to its innovative use of a special silicone substrate similar to those used in contact lenses. 

This enhancement in the substrate's properties, coupled with newly developed wiring design structures, have significantly improved the display's flexibility.

In addition to its flexibility, LG Display has ensured that the new stretchable display is highly durable, withstanding over 10,000 stretching cycles without degradation.

It also utilizes micro-LEDs that are less than 40 micrometers thick, maintaining sharp image quality even under extreme temperatures and physical impacts.

The potential applications for this cutting-edge technology are extensive. 

LG Display showcased a variety of concepts for its stretchable screens, including a vehicle display that pops up in a convex shape allowing for manual interaction, and a wearable display that can be attached to firefighters’ gear to provide real-time data during operations. 

The flexibility of these displays means they can be adhered not just to flat surfaces but also to irregular ones such as clothing or skin, paving the way for innovations in fashion, wearables, and mobility sectors.

However, LG Display is not the only player in this arena. Samsung Display previously announced its version of a stretchable display in June, which can stretch by up to 25% (1.25 times its original size), boasting the highest resolution and elasticity currently available in the industry. 

Despite Samsung's claims, LG's latest development represents a substantial leap forward in terms of stretchability.

The race to develop stretchable display technology reflects  a larger trend reshaping  the global display market. 

According to a report by DSCC (Display Supply Chain Consultants), the global  display production capacity is anticipated to grow by an average of 1.4% annually from last year until 2028. 

While liquid crystal displays (LCDs) are projected  to grow at a rate of 1% annually, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) could grow at a rate of 4.8% per year. 

This accelerated growth underscores the rapidly evolving competitive landscape where industry leaders  like LG and Samsung continue to play a central role as pivotal players. 

Furthermore, the report highlights China's emerging dominance in the global display market, signaling a notable shift in leading production capabilities.

This technological advancement by LG Display underscores the dynamic nature of the display industry and highlights the ongoing innovation that companies are pursuing to stay ahead in a highly competitive market. 

As these technologies continue to mature, they promise to revolutionize not only the electronics market but also a broad array of industries looking to integrate advanced display capabilities into their products.

DoGyoung Bae / Grade 10
St. Johnsbury Academy Jeju