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1.Institute of Medical Engineering and Interdisciplinary Research, Medical Science and Technology Innovation Center, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, 250117 Jinan, China
2.Medical Engineering and Technology Research Center, School of Radiology, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, 271016 Taian, China
3.State Key Laboratory of Widegap Semiconductor Optoelectronic Materials and Technologies, and Department of Electronic Engineering, Tsinghua University, 100084 Beijing, China
Yinglun Sun (sunyinglun@sdfmu.edu.cn)
Lai Wang (wanglai@tsinghua.edu.cn)
Received:25 March 2025,
Revised:2025-09-09,
Accepted:15 September 2025,
Online First:03 March 2026,
Published:31 May 2026
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Gao, X. F. et al. Advancing flexible optoelectronics with Ⅲ-nitride semiconductors: from materials to applications. Light: Science & Applications, 15, 1419-1439 (2026).
Gao, X. F. et al. Advancing flexible optoelectronics with Ⅲ-nitride semiconductors: from materials to applications. Light: Science & Applications, 15, 1419-1439 (2026). DOI: 10.1038/s41377-025-02052-0.
The rapid evolution of wearable technology
interconnected devices
and medical devices is driving innovation in advanced materials for flexible optoelectronics. Ⅲ-nitride semiconductors
with their exceptional optoelectronic properties
strong piezotronic and piezo-phototronic effects
biocompatibility
and thermal/chemical/mechanical stability
present a compelling alternative to traditional organic and Si-based inorganic materials. Despite significant research efforts
a systematic review summarizing the advancements and challenges in Ⅲ-nitride flexible optoelectronics is lacking. This article provides a comprehensive overview of recent developments in this field. It begins by highlighting the advantages of Ⅲ-nitride semiconductors for flexible optoelectronics. The article then discusses the fabrication techniques for Ⅲ-nitride flexible devices
covering materials growth
film exfoliation and transfer
as well as functional micro/nanostructures. A wide range of flexible applications of Ⅲ-nitrides are explored
including flexible displays
implantable optogenetic devices
wearable photodetectors
and flexible mechanical sensors. Finally
challenges and potential solutions related to device fabrication
performance enhancement
theoretical modeling
and system integration are discussed. This work serves as a foundational reference and roadmap for further advancements in Ⅲ-nitride flexible optoelectronics.
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