41-2: Invited Paper: Quantum Dots and Aligned Quantum Rods for Polarized LC Backlights

A backlight that emits linearly polarized light would make it possible to increase the transmission through the first polarizer by a factor two. We used quantum rods that have a CdSe core that emits partially polarized yellowish green light (around 570 nm) and a CdS bulk that absorbs blue. The quantum rods can be aligned with their long axis parallel to an applied electric field with sufficient amplitude. The resulting layer emits linearly polarized light with a high degree of polarization. Such a layer can be used in different backlight configurations.