Project Title:

Ion Implanted Thin Film Phosphors for Head Mounted Field Emission Displays

94-1	03.09	6000	A	

Ion Implanted Thin Film Phosphors for Head Mounted Field Emission 
Displays 

Abstract:

Field emission displays (FEDs) based on cathodoluminescent 
phosphors have the potential to provide high quality miniature 
display panels for head mounted applications; head mounted displays 
are essential to guide astronauts performing maintenance and repair 
of space platforms outside the shuttle. Due to their granular 
nature and limited lifetime, present powdered phosphors provide 
inadequate FED performance. Replacing powdered phosphors with thin 
films produced by physical vapor deposition can improve 
chromaticity, allow much finer definition, and reduce phosphor 
degradation while increasing process automation to control 
manufacturing costs. Spire proposes to deposit ZnS as a thin-film 
host phosphor and produce full color (red, green, blue) faceplates 
by ion implanting it with appropriate co-activators. 
Spire has recently deposited adherent thin film ZnS phosphors 
implanted with Al exhibiting cathodoluminescence with brightnesses 
of 18 fL (10mAJcm2, 1500V) for both blue and green. In a parallel 
ARPA-sponsored program, Spire has demonstrated state-of-the-art 
yellow thin film electroluminescent phosphors using ion 
implantation (50 fL at 60 Hz). Drawing on expertise developed in 
both areas, the proposed program will demonstrate all three primary 
colors in adjacent lines on a single faceplate with brightness 
levels which meet or exceed present standards. 

Flat panel displays with increased luminance, greater color gamut, 
higher electrical efficiency, and longer operating life can replace 
cathode ray tubes in computer terminals, instrument panels, and 
many other Government and commercial display applications. There 
are numerous applications for low cost, miniaturized flat panel 
displays, including HMDs for air traffic control and navigation, 
personnel training, equipment maintenance, and virtual reality 
environments. 

Key Words

Spire Corporation    
One Patriots Park                          
Bedford, MA 01730-2396