B- and N-embedded multiple resonance (MR) type thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters usually suffer from slow reverse intersystem crossing (RISC) process and aggregation-caused emission quenching. Here, we report the design of a sandwich structure by placing the B-N MR core between two electron-donating moieties, inducing through-space charge transfer (TSCT) states. The proper adjusting of the energy levels brings about a 10-fold higher RISC rate in comparison with the parent B-N molecule. In the meantime, a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 91 % and a good color purity were maintained. Organic light-emitting diodes based on the new MR emitter achieved a maximum external quantum efficiency of 31.7 % and small roll-offs at high brightness. High device efficiencies were also obtained for a wide range of doping concentrations of up to 20 wt % thanks to the steric shielding of the B-N core. A good operational stability with LT95 of 85.2 h has also been revealed. The dual steric and electronic effects resulting from the introduction of a TSCT state offer an effective molecular design to address the critical challenges of MR-TADF emitters.
Keywords: Multiple Resonance; OLED; Reverse Intersystem Crossing; TADF; Through-Space Charge Transfer.
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