Tailor-made nanomaterials for automotive lighting
Optoelectronic devices are used in a variety of equipment in numerous fields, from multimedia systems to communications equipment and medical instrumentation. Given the increasing demand for smaller and more powerful equipment, the optoelectronics industry along with many others is turning toward the promise of multifunctional nanotechnology-based devices and, in particular, those with inspiration from organic materials and systems. The Multipro project was initiated to develop solid polymeric matrices in which various nanoparticles are embedded to produce tailor-made high performance and cost-effective lighting devices for automobile illumination applications. In particular, the researchers sought to instil the materials with high refractive index, wavelength conversion properties and electrical conductivity. Four industrial partners, one industrial research centre, one non-profit research institute and three universities made up the research consortium. The researchers employed molecular modelling to design materials with the aforementioned tailor-made characteristics. They developed a new nanoparticles synthesis route enabling them to achieve their objectives in terms of materials’ functionalities. In addition, they developed a novel approach to multifunctional electronic packaging enabling integration among material preparation, processing and packaging of the final device. Multipro project has contributed new nanoparticles leading to tailor-made multifunctional materials for specific applications in automotive lighting. In addition, the consortium strengthened research ties among nine partners from three EU Member States and one Associated Country. Thus, the Multipro project outcomes have the potential to enhance the competitiveness of the European automotive industry including manufacturers of automotive products with important consumer benefits in terms of performance and cost.
