Photoluminescence enhancement in quantum-dot-polymer films with CO₂ micropores through KHCO₃ decomposition

Quantum-dot (QDs) polymer composite films, which are key components in recent display applications, require improved photoluminescence (PL) intensity and color conversion efficiency for better display quality and low power consumption. In this study, we developed a novel approach to improve the photoluminescence (PL) of quantum dot (QDs)–polymer nanocomposite films. This was achieved by incorporating CO₂ micropores and scattering particles into QD-embedded photopolymerizable polymer films. CO₂ micropores were generated by the decomposition of KHCO₃ in the film. The CO₂ micropores, along with the partially decomposed KHCO₃ microparticles, act as a scattering medium that increases the photon absorbance and improves the PL intensity. The effect of KHCO₃ annealing temperature on various optical properties is investigated, and it is found that a large number of uniform micropores are created in the film at an optimal temperature, 110 ℃. Compared to an ordinary QD-polymer film, the PL of the QD-hybrid-foamed polymer film increases by 4.2 times. This method is fast and economically efficient, and provides insights into the design of high-performance optoelectronic devices.