EP2334151A1 - Method for producing an electroluminescent element through spray application on objects of any shape - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention is a process for producing an electroluminescent element comprising at least one substrate and at least one electroluminescent device. Moreover, the present invention relates to the electroluminescent elements obtainable by this method and their use.

Description

The present invention is a process for producing an electroluminescent element comprising at least one substrate and at least one electroluminescent device. Moreover, the present invention relates to the electroluminescent elements obtainable by this method and their use.

Electroluminescence (hereinafter also abbreviated to "EL") is understood as meaning the direct luminescence excitation of luminescent pigments (also called luminous luminescence, luminescent phosphors or luminophors) by means of an alternating electric field.

For the purposes of the present invention, EL elements are understood to be thick-film AC-EL elements. These are generally with an AC voltage of greater than 100 volts peak-to-peak, preferably greater than 100 volts peak-to-140 volts peak-to-peak, at several 100 Hz into the kHz range (1000 Hz), preferably 250 Hz Up to 800 Hz, more preferably 250 Hz to 500 Hz, most preferably operated at 400 Hertz and emit such a so-called cold light from a few cd / m ² to several 100 cd / m ² or more. Basically, the operation of such EL elements with an AC voltage with harmonic waveform is preferable. Transient voltage pulses should be avoided.

An advantage of these thick-film AC-EL elements is that the light emission by the layer containing at least one luminescent pigments which can be excited by an electric field is given virtually without ohmic power loss. The electrical conductivity of the necessary electrodes should be as even as possible, but there is no special current load. Preferably, however, well-conductive busbars are used to reduce voltage drops.

In general, the operation of the EL elements according to the invention takes place at a brightness of 1 cd / m ² to 500 cd / m ² , preferably 2 cd / m ² to 100 cd / m ² , particularly preferably 4 to 50 cd / m ² .

These so-called thick-film AC-EL elements have been well-known since Destriau 1947 and are usually applied to ITO-PET films by doctor blade methods, in particular screen printing. In these elements mostly zinc sulfide electroluminophores are used.

Electroluminescent technology has recently become increasingly important. It allows the realization of almost any size, glare-free and shadow-free, homogeneous lighting surfaces. Power consumption and depth are extremely low, especially in the order of a millimeter and below. In addition to the backlighting of liquid crystal displays, typical applications include the backlighting of transparent ones Films which are provided with captions and / or images. Thus, transparent EL elements, such as EL light panels based on glass or transparent plastic, which can serve as information carriers, advertising transparencies or for decorative purposes, are known from the prior art.

As already mentioned, EL elements are often produced by doctor blade methods, in particular by screen printing. For this purpose, a substrate is first coated with a transparent electrode; Generally, this is done by sputtering or by doctoring conductive pastes into a conductive layer. A luminescent layer (EL layer) is then applied to this transparent electrode, preferably again by a doctor blade method, in particular by screen printing. Finally, an insulating layer (dielectric layer) and a further electrode are then often arranged on the luminescent layer.

Starting point of EL arrangements are thus conductive electrode layers, which are applied to substrates.

The preparation of substrates provided with conductive electrode coatings can then prove difficult if the substrates are difficult to provide by sputtering or a doctor blade method with corresponding electrically conductive coatings, for example because they are formed three-dimensionally with an uneven surface or the spatial access of corresponding devices to the surface of the substrate, such as the inner surface of a hollow body (for example, a bottle), is not given.

There is therefore a need for a method for producing EL devices on substrates, with which it is possible to provide surfaces of substrates with EL devices which are accessible only with great difficulty, in particular by means of sputtering or a doctor blade method.

In addition, there is a need for a simple process for the production of EL elements, with which it is possible to provide the surface of a larger substrate with a plurality of, for example juxtaposed EL devices, which can be optionally controlled separately and then in their entirety give a visually appealing and varying EL image.

There is also a further need for a method in which two- and in particular three-dimensional objects which are already in use and, for example, due to their size, are not simply sputtered or sputtered in an industrial installation can be coated by a doctor blade method, can be easily provided with EL elements.

The processes known from the prior art for the production of EL elements fulfill these requirements - if at all - only to a limited extent.

For example, the German patent application concerns DE 10 2006 057 653 A a film element which is three-dimensionally deformable. In order for this film element is three-dimensionally deformable, the element must have a specific layer structure. Essential for the deformation is that the film element has a metal layer which is surrounded on each side by a cold stretchable film. The deformation of the film element can then be carried out by high-pressure isostatic deformation. It is in the DE 10 2006 057 653 A mentions that the electrode of the EL element can be applied by sputtering or by screen printing.

US 2003/0085383 A relates to a photocurable luminescent thermosetting polyester blend and its use as a gel for spray application. The composition contains a thermosetting polyester, a suspending filler and an electroluminescent pigment. The resulting EL element is constructed such that first a layer of a phosphorescent pigment is applied in a binder on a conductive substrate. With that goes the US 2003/0085383 A directly from an already electrically conductive substrate. The layers according to US 2003/0085383 A can be applied to this electrically conductive substrate, can be applied inter alia by means of spray application.

WO 03/061350 A1 describes an EL element for a vehicle. The classical structure of an EL element is selected from a conductive substrate, a dielectric layer containing a dielectric additive and EL pigments, and a conductive coating provided thereon. The substrate is also provided as a conductive substrate. The coatings can be sprayed on.

WO 03/061351 A1 relates to an EL element operated by electrical induction using induction loops. The EL element has a middle layer, whereby the electroluminescence can be masked in some places. This can be used to create special graphic effects. The application of the EL layer is carried out by spraying.

In the DE 103 19 396 A1 is a lighting device with an EL layer for illuminating the outer contours of a motor vehicle or parts of a motor vehicle described. The motor vehicle has a body provided with a paint layer. The EL layer between at least part of the body and the lacquer layer is applied by spraying, sputtering, brushing or screen printing.

It is common to these prior art publications that substrates which already have a conductive coating are used as the starting material for the EL elements. Substrates which do not have a conductive coating per se, such as walls or glass materials, can not be directly provided with EL devices by these prior art methods, but must first be provided with an electrically conductive layer.

In addition, none of these methods is suitable for the production of EL devices in which only spatially difficult to access surfaces of three-dimensional objects, such as the inner surface of a hollow body to be provided with an EL device.

Furthermore, the prior art lacks in particular sprayable formulations for electrodes which are at least partially transparent and suitable for EL arrangements.

The object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

In particular, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method for the production of EL elements which is suitable for applying the EL devices to substrates which are not electrically conductive per se and, moreover, due to their spatial configuration as well can not be easily provided with an EL arrangement.

Another object of the present invention is to provide sprayable formulations for the electrodes, the electroluminescent layer, and the insulating layer (s) of an EL device.

According to the invention, the object is surprisingly achieved by the features of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments can be found in the subclaims.

1. 1. Verfahren zur Herstellung eines EL-Elementes (1), umfassend mindestens ein Substrat (8), Komponente A, und mindestens eine EL-Anordnung (2), durch Aufsprühen der Schichten der EL-Anordnung (2), umfassend folgende Schritte:
   1. a) Aufsprühen der ersten Elektrode (9), auf das Substrat (8) oder auf eine oder mehrere auf das Substrat (8) aufgebrachte Isolationsschicht(en),
   2. b) Aufsprühen der EL-Schicht (11),
   3. c) Aufsprühen der zweiten Elektrode (12).
2. 2. EL-Element (1) mit einer Ebenheitstoleranz von 1 mm bis 50 mm pro Meter und/oder einem Innenradius von 500 mm bis 20 mm, und/oder einen Außenradius von 5 mm bis 500 mm hat.
3. 3. Suspension zur Herstellung der Elektroden (9;12) für ein EL-Element (1) dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Suspension 0,025 bis 0,9 Gew.-%, 0,05 bis 0,7 Gew.-%, besonders bevorzugt 0,075 bis 0,6 Gew.-% Poly-(3,4-ethylendioxythiophen) enthält.
4. 4. Suspension zur Herstellung einer Elektrolumineszensschicht (11) für ein EL-Element (1) dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Suspension enthält:
   • 30 bis 90 Gew.-%, bevorzugt von 35 bis 80 Gew.-%, besonders bevorzugt 45 bis 70 Gew.-% ZnS-Kristalle,
   • 10 bis 40 Gew.-%, bevorzugt 15 bis 35 Gew.-% Bindemittel, ausgewählt aus Ein- und Zweikomponentenpolyurethanen,
   • 1 bis 50 Gew.-%, bevorzugt 2 bis 30 Gew.-%, besonders bevorzugt 5 bis 15 Gew.-% Lösemittel ausgewählt aus Ethoxypropylacetat, Ethylacetat, Butylacetat, Methoxypropylacetat, Aceton, Methylethylketon, Methylisobutylketon, Cyclohexanon, Toluol, Xylol, Solventnaphtha 100 oder beliebige Mischungen von zwei oder mehreren dieser Lösemittel,
   • 0,1 bis 2 Gew.-% Verlaufsmittel, und
   • 0,01 bis 10 Gew.-%, bevorzugt 0,05 bis 5 Gew.-%, besonders bevorzugt 0,1 bis 2 Gew.-% Rheologieadditive.
5. 5. Suspension zur Herstellung einer Isolationsschicht (10) für ein EL-Element (1) dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Suspension enthält:
   • 5 bis 80 Gew.-%, bevorzugt von 10 bis 75 Gew.-%, besonders bevorzugt von 40 bis 70 Gew.-% Isolationsmaterial ausgewählt aus SrTiO₃, KNbO₃, PbTiO₃, LaTaO₃, LiNbO₃, GeTe, Mg₂TiO₄, Bi₂(TiO₃)₃, NiTiO₃, CaTiO₃, ZnTiO₃, Zn₂TiO₄, BaSnO₃, Bi(SnO₃)₃, CaSnO₃, PbSnO₃, MgSnO₃, SrSnO₃, ZnSnO₃, BaZrO₃, CaZrO₃, PbZrO₃, MgZrO₃, SrZrO₃, ZnZrO₃. oder Mischungen von zwei oder mehreren dieser Stoffe, bevorzugt ausgewählt aus BaTiO₃ oder PbZrO₃ oder Mischungen daraus,
   • 10 bis 40 Gew.-%, bevorzugt 15 bis 35 Gew.-% Bindemittel, ausgewählt aus Ein- und Zweikomponentenpolyurethanen,
   • 1 bis 50 Gew.-%, bevorzugt 2 bis 30 Gew.-%, besonders bevorzugt 5 bis 15 Gew.-% Lösemittel ausgewählt aus Ethylacetat, Butylacetat, 1-Methoxypropylacetat-2, Toluol, Xylol, Solvesso 100, Shellsol A oder Mischungen aus zwei oder mehreren dieser Lösemittel,
   • 0,1 bis 2 Gew.-% Verlaufsmittel, und
   • 0,01 bis 10 Gew.-%, bevorzugt 0,05 bis 5 Gew.-%, besonders bevorzugt 0,1 bis 2 Gew.-% Rheologieadditive.
6. 6. Suspension zur Herstellung einer Isolationsschicht (10) für ein EL-Element (1) dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Suspension enthält:
   • 5 bis 80 Gew.-%, bevorzugt von 10 bis 75 Gew.-%, besonders bevorzugt von 40 bis 70 Gew.-% Isolationsmaterial ausgewählt aus SrTiO₃, KNbO₃, PbTiO₃, LaTaO₃, LiNbO₃, GeTe, Mg₂TiO₄, Bi₂(TiO₃)₃, NiTiO₃, CaTiO₃, ZnTiO₃, Zn₂TiO₄, BaSnO₃, Bi(SnO₃)₃, CaSnO₃, PbSnO₃, MgSnO₃, SrSnO₃, ZnSnO₃, BaZrO₃, CaZrO₃, PbZrO₃, MgZrO₃, SrZrO₃, ZnZrO₃. oder Mischungen von zwei oder mehreren dieser Stoffe, bevorzugt ausgewählt aus BaTiO₃ oder PbZrO₃ oder Mischungen daraus,
   • 10 bis 40 Gew.-%, bevorzugt 15 bis 35 Gew.-% Bindemittel, ausgewählt aus Ein- und Zweikomponentenpolyurethanen,
   • 1 bis 50 Gew.-%, bevorzugt 2 bis 30 Gew.-%, besonders bevorzugt 5 bis 15 Gew.-% Lösemittel ausgewählt aus Ethylacetat, Butylacetat, 1-Methoxypropylacetat-2, Toluol, Xylol, Solvesso 100, Shellsol A oder Mischungen aus zwei oder mehreren dieser Lösemittel,
   • 0,1 bis 2 Gew.-% Verlaufsmittel, und
   • 0,01 bis 10 Gew.-%, bevorzugt 0,05 bis 5 Gew.-%, besonders bevorzugt 0,1 bis 2 Gew.-% Rheologieadditive.

The subject of the present invention is therefore:

1. A process for producing an EL element (1) comprising at least one substrate (8), component A, and at least one EL device (2), by spraying the layers of the EL device (2), comprising the following steps:
   1. a) spraying on the first electrode (9), on the substrate (8) or on one or more insulation layer (s) applied to the substrate (8),
   2. b) spraying the EL layer (11),
   3. c) spraying the second electrode (12).
2. 2. EL element (1) with a flatness tolerance of 1 mm to 50 mm per meter and / or an inner radius of 500 mm to 20 mm, and / or an outer radius of 5 mm to 500 mm.
3. 3. suspension for producing the electrodes (9; 12) for an EL element (1), characterized in that the suspension 0.025 to 0.9 wt .-%, 0.05 to 0.7 wt .-%, particularly preferably Contains 0.075 to 0.6 wt .-% poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene).
4. 4. Suspension for producing an electroluminescent layer (11) for an EL element (1), characterized in that the suspension contains:
   • From 30 to 90% by weight, preferably from 35 to 80% by weight, particularly preferably from 45 to 70% by weight, of ZnS crystals,
   • From 10 to 40% by weight, preferably from 15 to 35% by weight, of binder selected from one- and two-component polyurethanes,
   • 1 to 50 wt .-%, preferably 2 to 30 wt .-%, particularly preferably 5 to 15 wt .-% of solvent selected from ethoxypropyl acetate, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, methoxypropyl acetate, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone, cyclohexanone, toluene, xylene, solvent naphtha 100 or any mixtures of two or more of these solvents,
   • 0.1 to 2 wt .-% leveling agent, and
   • 0.01 to 10 wt .-%, preferably 0.05 to 5 wt .-%, particularly preferably 0.1 to 2 wt .-% rheology additives.
5. 5. Suspension for producing an insulation layer (10) for an EL element (1), characterized in that the suspension contains:
   • From 5 to 80% by weight, preferably from 10 to 75% by weight, particularly preferably from 40 to 70% by weight, of insulating material selected from SrTiO ₃ , KNbO ₃ , PbTiO ₃ , LaTaO ₃ , LiNbO ₃ , GeTe, Mg ₂ TiO ₄ , Bi ₂ (TiO ₃ ) ₃ , NiTiO ₃ , CaTiO ₃ , ZnTiO ₃ , Zn ₂ TiO ₄ , BaSnO ₃ , Bi (SnO ₃ ) ₃ , CaSnO ₃ , PbSnO ₃ , MgSnO ₃ , SrSnO ₃ , ZnSnO ₃ , BaZrO ₃ , CaZrO ₃ , PbZrO ₃ , MgZrO ₃ , SrZrO ₃ , ZnZrO ₃ . or mixtures of two or more of these substances, preferably selected from BaTiO ₃ or PbZrO ₃ or mixtures thereof,
   • From 10 to 40% by weight, preferably from 15 to 35% by weight, of binder selected from one- and two-component polyurethanes,
   • 1 to 50 wt .-%, preferably 2 to 30 wt .-%, particularly preferably 5 to 15 wt .-% of solvent selected from ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, 1-Methoxypropylacetat-2, toluene, xylene, Solvesso 100, Shellsol A or mixtures from two or more of these solvents,
   • 0.1 to 2 wt .-% leveling agent, and
   • 0.01 to 10 wt .-%, preferably 0.05 to 5 wt .-%, particularly preferably 0.1 to 2 wt .-% rheology additives.
6. 6. Suspension for producing an insulation layer (10) for an EL element (1), characterized in that the suspension contains:
   • From 5 to 80% by weight, preferably from 10 to 75% by weight, particularly preferably from 40 to 70% by weight, of insulating material selected from SrTiO ₃ , KNbO ₃ , PbTiO ₃ , LaTaO ₃ , LiNbO ₃ , GeTe, Mg ₂ TiO ₄ , Bi ₂ (TiO ₃ ) ₃ , NiTiO ₃ , CaTiO ₃ , ZnTiO ₃ , Zn ₂ TiO ₄ , BaSnO ₃ , Bi (SnO ₃ ) ₃ , CaSnO ₃ , PbSnO ₃ , MgSnO ₃ , SrSnO ₃ , ZnSnO ₃ , BaZrO ₃ , CaZrO ₃ , PbZrO ₃ , MgZrO ₃ , SrZrO ₃ , ZnZrO ₃ . or mixtures of two or more of these substances, preferably selected from BaTiO ₃ or PbZrO ₃ or mixtures thereof,
   • From 10 to 40% by weight, preferably from 15 to 35% by weight, of binder selected from one- and two-component polyurethanes,
   • 1 to 50 wt .-%, preferably 2 to 30 wt .-%, particularly preferably 5 to 15 wt .-% of solvent selected from ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, 1-Methoxypropylacetat-2, toluene, xylene, Solvesso 100, Shellsol A or mixtures from two or more of these solvents,
   • 0.1 to 2 wt .-% leveling agent, and
   • 0.01 to 10 wt .-%, preferably 0.05 to 5 wt .-%, particularly preferably 0.1 to 2 wt .-% rheology additives.

In particular, the object is achieved by a method for producing an EL element, comprising at least one EL device comprising a first electrically conductive electrode, optionally but not necessarily, one or more reflection layer (s), optionally, but not necessarily, one or a plurality of dielectric layer (s), at least one EL layer and a second electrically conductive electrode, and a substrate, wherein the EL device is deposited on the substrate.

The EL element may be configured such that the side of the substrate provided with the EL device is illuminated, or that an at least partially transparent substrate is transilluminated by a rearwardly applied EL device, such as could be moved in glass hollow bodies , Furthermore, the illumination can also radiate to both sides, if the substrate is at least partially transparent.

1. a) einem zumindest teilweise transparenten Substrat, Komponente A,
2. b) mindestens einer auf das Substrat aufgebrachten EL-Anordnung, Komponente B, enthaltend die folgenden Komponenten:
   • ba) eine zumindest teilweise transparente Elektrode, Komponente BA, als Frontelektrode,
   • bb) gegebenenfalls eine Isolationsschicht, Komponente BB,
   • bc) eine Schicht, enthaltend mindestens ein durch ein elektrisches Feld anregbares Leuchtpigment (Elektroluminophor), EL-Schicht oder Pigmentschicht genannt, Komponente BC,
   • bd) gegebenenfalls eine Isolationsschicht, Komponente BD,
   • be) eine Rückelektrode, Komponente BE, die zumindest teilweise transparent sein kann,
   • bf) eine oder mehrere Leiterbahn(en), Komponente BF, zur elektrischen Kontaktierung von sowohl Komponente BA als auch von Komponente BE, wobei die Leiterbahn(en) vor, nach oder zwischen den Elektroden BA und BE aufgebracht werden kann bzw. können, wobei vorzugsweise die Leiterbahn(en) in einem Arbeitsschritt aufgebracht wird bzw. werden. Die Leiterbahn(en) kann bzw. können in Form eines Busbars, vorzugsweise hergestellt aus einer Silberpaste, aufgebracht sein. Eventuell kann vor dem Aufbringen des Busbars noch eine Graphitschicht aufgebracht werden,
3. c) einer Schutzschicht, Komponente CA und/oder einer Schutzfolie, Komponente CB,

In a first embodiment of the present invention which is particularly preferred according to the invention, the EL element consists of the following layers (conventional structure):

1. a) an at least partially transparent substrate, component A,
2. b) at least one EL device, component B, applied to the substrate, comprising the following components:
   • ba) an at least partially transparent electrode, component BA, as the front electrode,
   • bb) optionally an insulating layer, component BB,
   • bc) a layer containing at least one luminescent pigment (electroluminophore) which can be excited by an electric field, called EL layer or pigment layer, component BC,
   • bd) optionally an insulating layer, component BD,
   • be) a return electrode, component BE, which may be at least partially transparent,
   • bf) one or more conductor track (s), component BF, for electrically contacting both component BA and component BE, wherein the track (s) can be applied before, after or between the electrodes BA and BE, wherein Preferably, the conductor track (s) is applied or be in one step. The track (s) can or may be applied in the form of a busbar, preferably made of a silver paste. It may also be possible to apply a graphite layer before applying the busbar.
3. c) a protective layer, component CA and / or a protective film, component CB,

The insulation layers BB and BD can be opaque, opaque or transparent, wherein at least one of the layers must be at least partially transparent if two insulation layers are present

On the outside of the substrate A and / or between the substrate A and the EL arrangement, one or more at least partially transparent graphically designed layers can also be arranged.

• außen auf Komponente A,
• zwischen Komponente A und Komponente BA,
• zwischen Komponente BA und Komponente BB bzw. BC, wenn Komponente BB fehlt,
• zwischen Komponente BD und Komponente BE,
• zwischen Komponente BE und Komponente BF,
• zwischen Komponente BF und Komponente CA bzw. CB,
• außen auf Komponente CA bzw. CB.

In addition to the layers mentioned (components A, B and C), the inventive EL element (conventional structure) may have one or more reflection layer (s). The reflection layer (s) may or may in particular be arranged:

• outside on component A,
• between component A and component BA,
• between component BA and component BB or BC, if component BB is missing,
• between component BD and component BE,
• between component BE and component BF,
• between component BF and component CA or CB,
• outside on component CA or CB.

Preferably, the reflective layer layer, if present, arranged between component BC and component BD or BE, if component BD is missing.

The reflection layer preferably comprises glass beads, in particular hollow glass beads. The diameter of the glass beads can be changed within wide limits. Thus, they can have a size d ₅₀ of generally 5 μm to 3 mm, preferably 10 to 200 μm, particularly preferably 20 to 100 μm. The hollow glass beads are preferably embedded in a binder.

1. a) einem zumindest teilweise transparenten Substrat, Komponente A,
2. b) mindestens einer auf dem Substrat aufgebrachten EL-Anordnung, Komponente B, enthaltend die folgenden Komponenten
   • be) eine Rückelektrode, Komponente BE, die zumindest teilweise transparent sein kann,
   • bb) gegebenenfalls eine Isolationsschicht, Komponente BB,
   • bc) eine Schicht, enthaltend mindestens ein durch ein elektrisches Feld anregbares Leuchtpigment (Elektroluminophor), EL-Schicht oder Pigmentschicht genannt, Komponente BC,
   • bd) gegebenenfalls eine Isolationsschicht, Komponente BD,
   • ba) eine zumindest teilweise transparente Elektrode, Komponente BA, als Frontelektrode,
   • bf) eine oder mehrere Leiterbahn(en), Komponente BF, zur elektrischen Kontaktierung von sowohl Komponente BA als auch von Komponente BE, wobei die Leiterbahn(en) vor, nach oder zwischen den Elektroden BA und BE aufgebracht werden kann bzw. können, wobei vorzugsweise die Leiterbahn(en) in einem Arbeitsschritt aufgebracht wird bzw. werden. Die Leiterbahn(en) kann bzw. können in Form eines Busbars, vorzugsweise hergestellt aus einer Silberpaste, aufgebracht sein. Eventuell kann vor dem Aufbringen des Busbars noch eine Graphitschicht aufgebracht werden,
3. c) einer zumindest teilweise transparenten Schutzschicht, Komponente CA und/oder einer Schutzfolie, Komponente CB.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the EL element consists of the following layers (inverse layer structure):

1. a) an at least partially transparent substrate, component A,
2. b) at least one applied to the substrate EL device, component B, comprising the following components
   • be) a return electrode, component BE, which may be at least partially transparent,
   • bb) optionally an insulating layer, component BB,
   • bc) a layer containing at least one luminescent pigment (electroluminophore) which can be excited by an electric field, called EL layer or pigment layer, component BC,
   • bd) optionally an insulating layer, component BD,
   • ba) an at least partially transparent electrode, component BA, as the front electrode,
   • bf) one or more conductor track (s), component BF, for electrically contacting both component BA and component BE, wherein the track (s) can be applied before, after or between the electrodes BA and BE, wherein Preferably, the conductor track (s) is applied or be in one step. The conductor track (s) can be applied in the form of a busbar, preferably made of a silver paste. It may also be possible to apply a graphite layer before applying the busbar.
3. c) an at least partially transparent protective layer, component CA and / or a protective film, component CB.

On the transparent protective layer C and / or between the transparent protective layer C and the EL array, one or more at least partially transparent graphically designed layers can also be arranged. In particular, the graphically designed layers can assume the function of the protective layer.

In a particular embodiment of the inverse layer structure, the abovementioned structures B, C can be mounted both on the front side of the substrate, component A, and on the back side, as well as on both sides of the substrate (two-sided construction). The layers BA to BF on both sides can be identical, but they can differ in one or more layers, so that, for example, the EL element on both sides equivalent or the EL element on each side has a different color and / or brightness and / or other graphic design.

• außen auf Komponente A,
• zwischen Komponente A und Komponente BE,
• zwischen Komponente BE und Komponente BB,
• zwischen Komponente BB und Komponente BC,
• zwischen Komponente BC und Komponente BD,
• zwischen Komponente BD und Komponente BA,
• zwischen Komponente BA und Komponente BF,
• zwischen Komponente BF und Komponente CA bzw. CB,
• auf Komponente CA bzw. CB.

In addition to the layers mentioned (components A, B and C), the inventive EL element with inverse layer structure can have one or more reflection layer (s). The reflection layer (s) may or may in particular be arranged:

• outside on component A,
• between component A and component BE,
• between component BE and component BB,
• between component BB and component BC,
• between component BC and component BD,
• between component BD and component BA,
• between component BA and component BF,
• between component BF and component CA or CB,
• on component CA or CB.

Preferably, the reflective layer layer, if present, arranged between component BC and component BB or BE, if component BB is missing.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the particular embodiments and features of the conventional structure, unless otherwise specified, apply mutatis mutandis to inverse layer construction and two-sided construction.

The one or more insulation layer (s) BB and / or BD, both in the conventional construction and in the inverse construction, can be dispensed with in particular if the component BC has a layer thickness which prevents a short circuit between the two electrode components BA and BE ,

However, the substrate, especially if it is an electrically conductive substrate, may be prior to application of the EL device, i. usually before the application of the first electrode, be provided with one or more additional insulation layer (s) AA.

According to the invention, it is preferably provided to apply all the components of the EL arrangement layers (BA to BF) as well as the additional insulation layer AA and the protective layer CA to the substrate A by spray application both in the conventional and in the reverse construction including the two-sided structure; If necessary, component CB would have to be subsequently glued or laminated. The trace or traces may also be applied by spray application, but may They are also applied by other methods known in the art, for example by screen printing, by rolling or brushing. It is also possible subsequently to apply the conductor track or the conductor tracks, for example in the form of metal strips, for example, to glue it on. The possibly present graphite layer can be applied in the same way as the conductor tracks.

The order in which the layers are sprayed preferably corresponds to the sequence of layers in the EL device.

By means of the method according to the invention, it is possible to simply provide existing substrates, which have no electrically conductive surface, with an EL arrangement. A treatment of the surface of the substrate for applying the first electrically conductive coating (first electrode, component BA in the conventional structure, component BE in the inverse structure), for example by means of a doctor blade or screen printing method for applying the electrically conductive coating is not required to the substrate make its surface electrically conductive. The application of the corresponding layer of the first electrically conductive electrode is effected simply by spray application, which makes the process as a whole simple and effective.

1. 1 Aufsprühen der ersten Elektrode (BA beim herkömmlichen Aufbau bzw. BE beim inversen Aufbau) auf Substrat A oder auf eine oder mehrere auf das Substrat A aufgebrachte Isolationsschicht(en) AA;
2. 2 Aufsprühen der EL-Schicht (BC);
3. 3 Aufsprühen der zweiten Elektrode (BE beim herkömmlichen Aufbau bzw. BA beim inversen Aufbau).

According to the invention, the method according to the invention comprises the following steps:

1. 1 spraying the first electrode (BA in the conventional structure or BE in the inverse structure) on substrate A or on one or more of the insulating layer (s) AA applied to the substrate A;
2. 2 spraying the EL layer (BC);
3. 3 Spraying of the second electrode (BE in the conventional setup or BA in the inverse setup).

Thereafter, the conductor track (s) is / are applied, preferably by spraying.

Thereafter, the protective layer (s) and / or the protective film (s) is applied, wherein the protective layer (s) are preferably applied by spraying.

Between the first electrode and the EL layer and between the EL layer and the second electrode, one or more insulation layer (s) may be applied independently, preferably by spraying.

As already stated above, one or more reflection layer (s) may additionally be applied, preferably by spraying.

The following describes the characteristics of the individual components of the EL element:

Electrode (s)

The EL element according to the invention has a front electrode BA and a rear electrode BE.

In the conventional structure, the front electrode BA, in the reverse construction, the back electrode BE, at least partially transparent. The respective counterelectrode (component BE in the conventional structure, component BA in the inverse structure) does not necessarily have to be of a transparent construction.

For the purposes of the present application, the term "at least partially transparent" means an electrode which is constructed from a material which has a transmission of generally more than 60%, preferably more than 70%, particularly preferably more than 80%, in particular more than 90%.

According to the invention, it is possible, for example, to apply indium tin oxide materials (ITO) to the corresponding substrate under spray application, so that a corresponding electrode is formed. The indium-tin-oxide materials have the advantage that they have a relatively low sheet resistance of about 60 to 600 Ω with a fairly high transparency and are present after the spray application in very thin layers of several 100 Å.

Furthermore, layers of electrically conductive materials based on ATO can be spray-applied. These are antimony tin oxides.

The advantage of these materials based on ITO or ATO is that they have a relatively good laminatability.

Other materials for the electrodes are intrinsically conductive transparent polymers. Examples of intrinsically conductive polymer systems are Agfa's Orgacon® series of products, the Clevios® series (poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) from HC Starck GmbH, which referred to as organic metal (PEDT-conductive polymeric polyethylene-dioxythiophene) Ormecon system and conductive coating or ink systems from Panipol OY.

The at least partially transparent electrode used according to the invention is thus preferably selected from the group consisting of: ITO screen printing layers, ATO (antimony-tin-oxide) screen printing layers, Non-ITO screen printing layers (where the term "non-TTO" covers all screen printing layers that are not based on indium tin oxide (ITO)), ie intrinsically conductive polymer layers with usually nanoscale electrically conductive pigments, for example the ATO screen printing pastes with the designations 7162E or 7164 from DuPont, intrinsically conductive polymer systems such as the Orgacon system from Agfa, the Clevios poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) system from HC Starck GmbH, referred to as organic metal (PEDT-conductive polymer polyethylene-dioxythiophene) System of Ormecon, conductive coating or printing ink systems of Panipol OY and optionally with highly flexible binders, eg based on PU (polyurethanes), PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), PVA (polyvinyl alcohol), modified polyaniline. Preferably, a Clevios poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) system from HC Starck GmbH is used as the material of the at least partially transparent electrode of the electroluminescent element; these are aqueous dispersions containing 0.25 to 1 wt .-% poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene stabilized with polystyrene sulfonate.

According to the invention, to formulate a sprayable suspension for producing the at least partially transparent electrode, BA 10 to 90% by weight, preferably 20 to 70% by weight, particularly preferably 30 to 60% by weight, in each case based on the total weight of the sprayable Suspension, an intrinsically conductive polymer system used, consisting of an aqueous dispersion of poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) with poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) with polystyrene sulfonate. This polymer system is preferably selected from Clevios P, Clevios P, Clevios P AG, Clevios P HCV4, Clevios P HS, Clevios PH, Clevios PH 500, Clevios PH 510 or any mixtures thereof. This corresponds to 0.025 to 0.9% by weight, preferably 0.05 to 0.7 wt .-%, particularly preferably 0.075 to 0.6 wt .-% poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene). Examples of suitable solvents are dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), N, N-dimethylformamide, N, N-dimethylacetamide, ethylene glycol, glycerol, sorbitol, methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, N-propanol, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, dimethylaminoethanol, water or mixtures of two or three or more of said solvents. The amount of solvent in the sprayable suspension can vary widely. Thus, in a formulation according to the invention of a sprayable suspension, 55 to 80% by weight of solvent may be present, while in another inventive formulation about 35 to 80% by weight of a solvent mixture of two or more solvents are used. Further, as an interfacial additive and adhesion promoter, Silquest A187 (gamma-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane with methanol), Neo Rez R986, Dynol 604 (an acetylene glycol based nonionic surfactant), and / or mixtures of two or more of these substances may be included. The amount thereof is preferably 0.3 to 2.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the sprayable suspension.

Polyurethane dispersions such as UD-85, Bayhydrol PR340 / 1, Bayhydrol PR135 or any mixtures thereof, preferably in amounts of from about 0.5 to 6% by weight, preferably from 3 to 5% by weight, may be used as binders in the formulation of the sprayable suspension. be included. The polyurethane dispersions used according to the invention, which form the binder for the conductive layer after the layer has dried, are aqueous.

A formulation of a sprayable suspension which is particularly preferred according to the invention for producing the partially transparent electrode contains: substance Content / weight% Content / weight% Content / weight% Content / weight% Clevios P HS (HC Starck) 24.6 35.7 24.5 31.0 Silquest A187 (OSi Specialties) 0.3 0.4 0.7 0.4 N-methylpyrrolidone 17.6 10.7 18.4 10.7 diethylene glycol 19.6 15.4 35.6 15.3 Proglyde / DMM 9.4 9.2 16.7 9.2 UD-85 (Lanxess) 3.0 3.0 4.1 3.0 water 25.5 25.6 0.0 30.4

• Mit einem Rheometer MCR301 der Firma Anton Paar GmbH (A-8054 Graz, Österreich) wurde die Viskosität bestimmt. Verwendetes Messsystem: CP50-2 (Kegel/Platte, 49,966 mm Durchmesser und 1,994 ° Kegelwinkel, Abstand zwischen Kegelspitze und Platte: 49 um). Messung mit konstanter Scherrate von 100 s^-1. Es wurden 30 Messpunkte ermittelt, die Dauer der Messung betrug insgesamt 180 Sekunden, die Temperatur 20 °C. Die Paste verhält sich scherverdünnend. Die Viskosität erreicht nach 80 Sekunden einen stabilen Wert von (237 ± 5) mPa·s.

Determination of the viscosity of a formulation suitable for spray application:

• The viscosity was determined using a Rheometer MCR301 from Anton Paar GmbH (A-8054 Graz, Austria). Measuring system used: CP50-2 (cone / plate, 49.966 mm diameter and 1.994 ° cone angle, distance between cone point and plate: 49 μm). Measurement with constant shear rate of 100 s ^-1 . 30 measuring points were determined, the duration of the measurement totaled 180 seconds, the temperature 20 ° C. The paste behaves shear thinning. The viscosity reaches a stable value of (237 ± 5) mPa · s after 80 seconds.

After these electrode materials have been applied to a corresponding substrate, they are then dried at low temperatures of, for example, 80 to 120 ° C. The applied by spray application layer of the first electrically conductive electrode has preferably a sheet resistance of 0.1 Ω / square to 5000 Ω / square, preferably from 1 to 1000 Ω / square, more preferably from 10 to 500 Ω / square, most preferably 50 to 500 Ω / square.

In one embodiment, the layer of the first electrically conductive electrode can be applied to the substrate in a flat manner. In another embodiment, however, it is also possible for the layer of the first electrically conductive electrode to be applied only to partial regions of the surface of the substrate. As a result, it is possible for only partial areas of the surface of the substrate to be provided with an EL arrangement so that as a whole a substrate results which has a graphically designed EL surface.

For the counterelectrode, which can also be applied by spraying, the same explanations apply that have already been made for the layer of the first electrode.

Furthermore, for this second electrode, as far as it is not intended to be at least partially transparent, materials such as metal pastes, for example silver pastes, graphite pastes, etc. may also be used.

Insulation layer (s)

The EL element according to the invention optionally comprises one or more insulation layer (s) (dielectric layers), components BB and BD.

Components of suitable insulation layers are known per se to the person skilled in the art. A particularly preferred example is barium titanate (BaTiO ₃ ). Further insulation materials (dielectrics) are known to the person skilled in the literature, for example: SrTiO ₃ , KNbO ₃ , PbTiO ₃ , LaTaO ₃ , LiNbO ₃ , GeTe, Mg ₂ TiO ₄ , Bi ₂ (TiO ₃ ) ₃ , NiTiO ₃ , CaTiO ₃ , ZnTiO ₃ , Zn ₂ TiO ₄ , BaSnO ₃ , Bi (SnO ₃ ) ₃ , CaSnO ₃ , PbSnO ₃ , MgSnO ₃ , SrSnO ₃ , ZnSnO ₃ , BaZrO ₃ , CaZrO ₃ , PbZrO ₃ , MgZrO ₃ , SrZrO ₃ , ZnZrO ₃ , or mixtures of two or more of these substances. According to the invention, preferred are BaTiO ₃ or PbZrO ₃ or mixtures thereof, preferably in quantities of from 5 to 80% by weight, preferably from 10 to 75% by weight, particularly preferably from 40 to 70% by weight.

As binders for this layer, one- or preferably two-component polyurethane systems can be used, for example Bayer Material Science AG, preferably Desmodur and Desmophen, preferably in an amount of from 10 to 40% by weight, preferably from 15 to 35% by weight, in each case based on the weight of the sprayable suspension. Examples of suitable solvents are ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, 1-Methoxypropylacetat-2, toluene, xylene, Solvesso 100, Shellsol A or mixtures of two or more of these solvents may be used, preferably in an amount of 1 to 50 wt .-%, preferably 2 to 30 wt .-%, particularly preferably 5 to 15 wt .-%, each based on the weight of the sprayable suspension. Furthermore, additives such as leveling agents and rheology additives can be added to improve the properties. Examples of flow control agents are Additol XL480 in butoxyl in a mixing ratio of 40:60 to 60:40. 0.01 to 10 wt .-%, preferably 0.05 to 5 wt .-%, particularly preferably 0.1 to 2 wt .-%, each based on the total paste mass, rheology additives which contain the settling behavior can be included as further additives of pigments and fillers in the paste, for example BYK 410, BYK 411, BYK 430, BYK 431 or any mixtures thereof.

The insulating layer preferably has a dielectric constant of more than 5, preferably more than 20, more preferably more than 50, most preferably more than 70.

Formulations preferred for a spray application according to the invention include, for example: substance Content / weight% Content / weight% Content / weight% Content / weight% Content / weight% BaTiO ₃ 44.7 50.5 48.7 52.3 59.8 Desmophen 1800 (BMS) 21.2 18.0 21.0 19.9 13.2 Desmodur L67 MPA / X (BMS) 11.8 10.0 12.0 11.1 7.3 ethoxypropylacetate 10.6 8.7 16.3 0.0 8.5 Additol XL480 1.9 2.2 2.0 2.0 1.8 Methoxypropylacetate (1-methoxy-2-propylacetate) 9.8 10.6 0.0 14.7 9.4

• Mit einem Rheometer MCR301 der Firma Anton Paar GmbH (A-8054 Graz, Österreich) wurde die Viskosität bestimmt. Verwendetes Messsystem: CP50-2 (Kegel/Platte, 49,966 mm Durchmesser und 1,994 ° Kegelwinkel, Abstand zwischen Kegelspitze und Platte: 49 µm). Messung mit konstanter Scherrate von 100 s^-1. Es wurden 30 Messpunkte ermittelt, die Dauer der Messung betrug insgesamt 180 Sekunden, die Temperatur 20 °C. Die Viskosität steigt während der Messung in etwa linear an und liegt zwischen 1135 und 1160 mPa·s.

Determination of the viscosity of a formulation suitable for spray application:

• The viscosity was determined using a Rheometer MCR301 from Anton Paar GmbH (A-8054 Graz, Austria). Measuring system used: CP50-2 (cone / plate, 49.966 mm diameter and 1.994 ° cone angle, distance between cone point and plate: 49 μm). Measurement with constant shear rate of 100 s ^-1 . 30 measuring points were determined, the duration of the measurement totaled 180 seconds, the temperature 20 ° C. The viscosity increases approximately linearly during the measurement and is between 1135 and 1160 mPa · s.

If the layer of the first electrically conductive electrode is applied only to partial regions of the surface of the substrate, it is possible for the insulating layer, which is optionally applied to the layer of this first electrode, to also be applied only to this partial region.

If the EL device provided according to the invention is designed so that the layer of the first electrically conductive electrode is not applied to the substrate in a closed manner, but only in partial regions, then regions of the substrate result which are not provided with the layer of the first electrode. An insulation layer can then subsequently be applied in this area. This insulating layer may be a separate insulating layer or may also be formed by the insulating layer, which per se is applied to the regions of the layer of the first electrode of the EL device.

Due to the simplified application, it is advantageous that the insulating layer, which is applied in the region of the substrate which is not provided with an electrically conductive coating by the first electrically conductive electrode, the same insulating layer, which is also subsequent to the layer of the first Electrode is applied, that is, in a first embodiment, the part of the insulating layer, which is applied in the region of the substrate, which is not provided with the layer of the first electrically conductive electrode, is formed by the same insulating layer, which is also subsequent to the Layer of the first electrode is applied.

Moreover, in a further embodiment, as mentioned, it is possible that the part of the insulating layer applied on the portion of the substrate which is not coated with the first electrically conductive electrode layer is different from the dielectric layer which then applied to the layer of the first electrode.

Elektrolumineszensschicht

The EL element according to the invention further comprises an EL layer, component BC.

Compositions for EL layers which can be used in the context of the inventive method for constructing the EL layer are generally based on inorganic substances. Typically, this layer is a dielectric material. The EL layer is generally composed of a binder matrix having homogeneously dispersed EL pigments therein. These pigments are preferably selected from zinc sulfide, cadmium sulfide, Zn _x Cd _1-x S compounds of groups II and IV of the Periodic Table of the Elements, with particular preference being given to using highly pure zinc sulfide. The above-mentioned substances can be doped or activated and optionally additionally be co-activated. For doping, for example copper, manganese, silver and / or gold are used. The co-activation takes place, for example, with chlorine, bromine, iodine and / or aluminum. The content of alkali and rare earth metals is generally very low in the above-mentioned substances, if any. Very particular preference is given to the use of zinc sulfide, which is preferably doped or activated with copper and / or manganese and is preferably co-activated with chlorine, bromine, iodine and / or aluminum.

The binder matrix is generally selected such that a good adhesion bond is provided on the electrode layer or the dielectric layer applied thereon. In a preferred embodiment, PVB or PU-based systems are used.

In addition to the EL pigments, further additives may optionally be present in the binder matrix, such as color-converting organic and / or inorganic systems, color additives for a day and night light effect and / or reflective and / or light-absorbing effect pigments such as aluminum flakes or glass flakes or Mika platelets , In general, the proportion of the EL pigments in the total mass of the EL layer (i.e., the degree of filling) is 20 to 75% by weight, preferably 40 to 70% by weight.

Conventional EL emission colors are orange, green, green-blue, blue-green and white, whereby the emission color white or red can be obtained by mixtures of suitable EL pigments or by color conversion. The color conversion may generally be in the form of a converting layer and / or the addition of appropriate dyes and pigments in the polymeric binder of the spray composition or matrix in which the electroluminescent pigments are incorporated.

In a further embodiment, pigments are used in the EL layer which have an emission in the blue wavelength range from 420 to 280 nm and are provided with a color-converting microencapsulation. In this way, the color can be imitated.

In one embodiment, EL pigments having an emission in the blue wavelength range of 420 to 480 nm are used in the EL layer. In addition, the EL pigment spray composition preferably has wavelength converting inorganic fine particles based on europium (II) activated alkaline earth ortho-silicate phosphors such as (Ba, Sr, Ca) ₂ SiO ₄ : Eu ²⁺ or YAG phosphors such as Y ₃ Al ₅ O ₁₂ : Ce ³⁺ or Tb ₃ Al _s O ₁₂ : Ce ³⁺ or Sr ₂ GaS ₄ : Eu ²⁺ or SrS: Eu ²⁺ or (Y, Lu, Gd, Th) ₃ (Al , Sc, Ga) ₅ O ₁₂ : Ce ³⁺ or (Zn, Ca, Sr) (S, Se): Eu ²⁺ . In this way, a white emission can be achieved. According to the prior art, the above-mentioned EL pigments can be microencapsulated to increase the life of the luminous substance. Due to the inorganic microencapsulation technology good half-lives can be achieved. This microencapsulation is known in the art and in the art. So revealed EP-A-455 401 for example, a microencapsulation of titanium dioxide or aluminum oxide. Each ZnS particle is essentially completely provided with a largely transparent, coherent metal oxide coating. By way of example, the EL system Luxprint® for electroluminescence from EI DuPont de Nemours and Company is also mentioned here. Organic microencapsulation technologies and film-wrap laminates based on the various thermoplastic films are also suitable in principle, but have proven to be expensive and not significantly extended in life.

Suitable zinc sulfide microencapsulated EL pigments are also available from Global Tungsten & Powders Corp., Towanda under the trade names GlacierGLO® Standard, High Brite® and Long Life® and from Durel Division of Rogers Corporation under the trade name 1BHS001® High Efficiency Green Encapsulated EL Phosphor, 1PHS002® High-Efficiency Blue-Green Encapsulated EL Phosphor, 1PHS003® Long-Life Blue Encapsulated EL Phosphor, 1PHS004® Long-Life Orange Encapsulated EL Phosphor.

The average particle diameters of the microencapsulated pigments suitable in the EL layer are generally 15 to 60 μm, preferably 20 to 35 μm.

Non-microencapsulated fine-grained EL pigments, preferably having a long service life, can also be used in the formulation for the sprayable suspension for the EL layer for the process according to the invention. Suitable, non-microencapsulated fine-grained zinc sulfide EL pigments are described, for example, in US Pat US Patent No. 6,248,261 and in the international patent application WO-A-01/34723 disclosed. These preferably have a cubic crystal structure. The non-microencapsulated pigments preferably have average particle diameters of from 1 to 30 .mu.m, particularly preferably from 3 to 25 .mu.m, very particularly preferably from 5 to 20 .mu.m.

Particularly non-microencapsulated EL pigments can be used in the composition for the EL layer, which is applied by spray application in the present invention, with smaller pigment dimensions down to less than 10 microns. Thereby, the transparency of the resulting EL layer can be increased, which is particularly advantageous if the underlying substrate has a certain transparency, so that the effects of the EL layer not only away from the substrate, but also in the direction of Substrate cause.

The composition for spray application of the EL layer in the inventive method further comprises a binder. In this case, binders are generally used which, on the one hand, have good adhesion to so-called ITO layers (indium-tin oxide) or intrinsically conductive polymeric transparent layers, have a good insulating effect, reinforce the dielectric and thus improve the dielectric strength at high electric field strengths , which can act between the electrodes cause and additionally have a good water vapor barrier in the cured state and additionally protect the EL pigments and thus extend the life of these pigments overall.

In a first embodiment of the method according to the invention, a composition for spray application is used, which comprises the corresponding EL pigments in combination with a corresponding binder.

The EL layer contains the abovementioned optionally doped ZnS crystals, preferably microencapsulated as described above, preferably in an amount of from 30 to 90% by weight, preferably from 35 to 80% by weight, particularly preferably from 45 to 70% by weight. -%, in each case based on the weight of the sprayable suspension. As binders it is possible to use mono- and preferably two-component polyurethanes, preferably in an amount of from 10 to 40% by weight, preferably from 15 to 35% by weight, based in each case on the weight of the sprayable suspension. Preferred materials according to the invention are materials from Bayer MaterialScience AG, for example the lacquer raw materials of the Desmophen and Desmodur series, preferably Desmophen and Desmodur, or the lacquer raw materials of the Lupranate, Lupranol, Pluraco or Lupraphen series from BASF AG. As solvents, ethoxypropyl acetate, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, methoxypropyl acetate, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone, cyclohexanone, toluene, xylene, solvent naphtha 100 or any mixtures of two or more of these solvents in amounts of preferably 1 to 50 wt .-%, preferably 2 to 30 Wt .-%, particularly preferably 5 to 15 wt .-%, each based on the total mass of the sprayable suspension used. Furthermore, 0.1 to 2 wt .-% additives to improve the flow behavior and the course may be included. Examples of flow control agents are Additol XL480 in butoxyl in a mixing ratio of 40:60 to 60:40. 0.01 to 10 wt .-%, preferably 0.05 to 5 wt .-%, particularly preferably 0.1 to 2 wt .-%, each based on the total mass of the sprayable suspension, rheology additives may be included as further additives, which reduce the settling behavior of pigments and fillers in the sprayable suspension, for example BYK 410, BYK 411, BYK 430, BYK 431 or any mixtures thereof. According to the invention, particularly preferred sprayable suspensions contain the following compositions: substance Content / wt .-% Pigment (Global Tungsten Powders Corp.) 47.1 62.5 54.9 63.5 65.3 62.0 71.3 64.8 Desmophen D670 (BMS) 19.0 10.7 11.5 15.8 14.5 17.4 12.0 14.5 Desmodur N75 MPA (BMS) 13.7 7.3 11.1 10.8 10.0 11.9 8.3 9.9 ethoxypropylacetate 9.6 9.0 12.1 9.4 0.0 0.0 8.0 4.5 Additol XL480 (50% w / w in butoxyl) 0.4 0.3 0.2 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.4 0.5 methoxypropylacetate 10.2 10.2 10.2 0.0 9.7 8.2 0.0 5.8

• Mit einem Rheometer MCR301 der Firma Anton Paar GmbH (A-8054 Graz, Österreich) wurde die Viskosität bestimmt. Verwendetes Messsystem: PP25 (Platte/Platte, 24,940 mm Durchmesser, Abstand zwischen Messsystem und Grundplatte: 0,5 mm). Messung mit konstanter Scherrate von 10 s^-1. Es wurden 40 Messpunkte ermittelt, die Dauer der Messung betrug insgesamt 240 Sekunden, die Temperatur 20 °C. Die Viskosität erreicht nach 80 Sekunden Werte im Bereich von 1740 bis 1860 mPa·s, im Mittel etwa 1810 mPa·s.

Determination of the viscosity of a formulation suitable for spray application:

• The viscosity was determined using a Rheometer MCR301 from Anton Paar GmbH (A-8054 Graz, Austria). Measurement system used: PP25 (plate / plate, 24.940 mm diameter, distance between measuring system and base plate: 0.5 mm). Measurement with constant shear rate of 10 s ^-1 . 40 measuring points were determined, the duration of the measurement was 240 seconds in total, the temperature 20 ° C. The viscosity reaches values in the range of 1740 to 1860 mPa · s after 80 seconds, on average about 1810 mPa · s.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, however, it is also possible that the binder system is first applied to the underlying layer (first electrode or optionally insulating layer) by spraying and then the corresponding EL pigments are introduced by spraying into this binder layer.

For this purpose, a binder can be mixed with solvents and then sprayed onto the appropriate layer. In a second step, the EL pigments are applied as a solid to this still moist film.

The second electrode layer (counterelectrode) is sprayed onto this EL layer after, if appropriate, a further insulation layer has previously been sprayed on. Both for the second electrode layer and for the optionally existing insulation layer, the same statements apply as above.

protective layer

The EL element may also be provided with a protective layer to protect the corresponding EL device. This protective layer is applied to the layer of the second electrically conductive electrode. This protective layer should preferably be transparent or at least translucent, so that the corresponding emission of the EL device can reach outside when the second electrode is at least partially transparent. Suitable materials of the protective layer are known to the person skilled in the art. Suitable protective layers are, for example, high-temperature-resistant protective lacquers, such as protective lacquers containing polycarbonates and binders, for example Noriphen® HTR from Pröll, Weissenburg. The nature of the application of this protective layer is not limited, with a spray application is also preferred.

Electrical connections

For operation of the EL device produced according to the invention, the first and the second electrodes have electrical connections. These are connected to a power source.

In general, the EL arrangement for this purpose has electrical connections, which are guided to a side edge of the EL element and contacted there by means of contacting aids with a current source. Suitable contacting aids are, for example, crimping, clamping, electrically conductive adhesive, rivets, screws and other means known to those skilled in the art. The control of the EL arrangement can be carried out in a conventional manner known to the expert.

For example, the electrical connections may be made using electrically conductive and stovable formulations of tin, zinc, silver, palladium, aluminum and other suitable conductive metals or combinations and mixtures or alloys thereof.

In this case, the electrically conductive contact strips generally by means of screen printing, brush application, ink jet, doctor blade, roller, by spray application or by Dispensierauftrag or comparable methods which are known in the art, to the layers produced in the inventive method by spray application of the first and applied second electrode and then thermally treated, for example in an oven, so that usually laterally along a substrate edge mounted strips can be well contacted by soldering, clamping, crimping, riveting, screwing, plugging or gluing electrically conductive.

In a further embodiment of the inventive method, the control of the resulting EL element is effected by a capacitive energy transfer. This is advantageous in particular when the EL arrangement is applied internally in a hollow body, for example a vase or a bottle, and no electrical leads are to be guided into or penetrate the hollow body, be it for practical reasons or for aesthetic reasons ,

The EL element produced by the method according to the invention is operated by means of alternating current. The alternating current is preferably generated by means of an EL inverter. By applying an alternating voltage to the two electrodes of the EL element, the emission of electroluminescence is then generated.

Depending on the design of the individual layers applied by spray application in the method according to the invention, the emission of electroluminescence may extend over the entire surface of the EL device. If the layers of the first and / or second electrode and in particular also the EL layer are applied only in partial regions of the substrate, then a corresponding emission of the electroluminescence also takes place only in these regions. As a result, special graphic embodiments of the EL elements are possible.

In addition, it is possible to arrange on a substrate a plurality of EL devices, which are controlled separately from each other.

Thus, it is possible by the inventive method, EL elements, which show a homogeneous or a non-homogeneous emission (color and brightness) over the surface of the EL element to produce.

Moreover, it is preferred that the thickness of the individual layers of the EL device have a substantially equal thickness, so that upon application of an AC voltage to the electrodes of the EL device, a uniform electroluminescence is also generated.

substratum

As a substrate, any solid material can serve. Examples of such a material are: wood, cardboard, porcelain, ceramic, plastic, in particular a thermosetting or a thermoplastic plastic, concrete, plasterboard, glass, metal, with or without applied insulation layer, the materials themselves being already coated and / or surface-treated can, for example, by painting, glaze, steaming, sputtering, etc.

The type and shape of the substrate used is not limited. The substrates may be, for example, a wall or a bottle or other commodity such as a lamp, a vase or a work of art.

The substrate used according to the invention can be formed both opaque and non-opaque.

In a further embodiment of the present invention, the substrate can either itself be formed by a film or else a film is first applied to a corresponding substrate and then an EL device is produced on this film in the manner according to the invention.

If a film material is used in the process according to the invention, this may be selected, for example, from at least one material selected from the group consisting of polycarbonates, polyesters, polyolefins, polyhalo-olefins, polyurethanes, polyamides, polyimides, polyarylates, organic thermoplastic cellulose esters and polyfluorocarbons. Preferred of these are polycarbonates, polyesters and polyimides, TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), PVC and polyfluorohydrocarbons.

Both the substrate or, if present, the film and substrate and film together may be provided with graphic representations. These may be information symbols, so that, for example, letters, numbers, symbols or pictograms are visible on the surface of the possibly three-dimensionally deformed substrate. The graphic design is preferably a graphic printing design, in particular a color imprint. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the substrate or the film is provided with graphic representations in the form of opaque or translucent color imprints. These color imprints can be made by any method known to those skilled in the art, for example by screen printing, offset lithography, screen printing, rotary printing, gravure printing or flexographic printing, all of which are well known and known in the art. The graphic design preferably takes place by means of ink application by means of screen printing, airbrushing or spray application. Commercially available colors can be used for the graphic design.

The inventive method is particularly suitable for the production of inorganic thick-film AC-EL elements.

By the method according to the invention it is possible to provide the surface of hard to reach objects with an EL arrangement, since it is sufficient to bring the spray head of a spraying device in the vicinity of the surface to be treated. By choice suitable spray devices or spray heads, any surfaces can be provided with EL devices. The objects to be treated may also have uneven surfaces. In particular, with the method according to the invention, it is possible to provide the inside of hollow objects, such as bottles, with EL arrangements when the objects have an opening, albeit small, around the spray head of the spraying device used in the hollow object introduce.

In addition, the erfmdungsgemäße method allows the production of small-area EL devices on substrates, since corresponding electrically conductive coatings on the substrates by the spray application can also be made small area. It is also possible to apply a plurality of corresponding EL arrangements on a substrate. If these separate EL arrangements are equipped with different EL pigments and / or controlled separately, it is possible to produce special graphic effects on the substrate, such as different colors and / or different brightnesses.

The EL element may have other components in addition to the above-mentioned components. For example, further layers may be present between the back electrode, component BE, and optionally a further insulation layer, component BD (or, if the insulation layer is not present, between component BE and component BC). In this case, the component BD (or, if this is not present to the component BC), a further structure comprising an at least partially transparent electrode, another layer containing at least one excitable by an electric field luminous substance, and optionally a further insulating layer connect. If necessary, this structure can be repeated once or several times, with the last component of the structure being connected to the back electrode, component BE.

The inventive method is preferably suitable for substrates which have a non-conductive surface. If the method according to the invention is carried out on a substrate which is already electrically conductive in itself or has a conductive coating, an insulating layer AA can be applied to this substrate A and the first electrically conductive layer applied to the insulating layer by spray application in accordance with the method according to the invention become. In this case, the potential applied to the EL device is decoupled from the substrate, which is particularly advantageous if the EL device does not cover the entire substrate. However, the insulation layer AA can also be applied by any other method known from the prior art

By means of the method according to the invention, it is possible to provide uneven, two-dimensional and three-dimensional objects essentially homogeneously with an electrically conductive coating, on which then the layers of an EL device are applied. Thus, the method according to the invention also provides a simple procedure for producing EL elements on uneven, three-dimensional objects. According to the invention, the application of the EL elements can take place on one or more sides of the two- or three-dimensionally formed substrate.

Uneven in the sense of the invention, surfaces (substrates) are considered which have a flatness tolerance (measured as the distance between two parallel planes, between which all points of the surface must lie) of greater than 1 mm per meter.

With the method according to the invention it is possible to produce EL devices on substrates having a flatness tolerance of 0.1 mm to 100 mm and larger per meter. In particular, it is possible to produce EL devices on substrates having a flatness tolerance of 1 mm to 50 mm, preferably 2 mm to 20 mm, particularly preferably 5 mm to 10 mm per meter.

It is also possible with the inventive method, substrates with an inner radius of 1000 mm to 10 mm, preferably from 500 mm to 20 mm, more preferably from 200 mm to 50 mm, most preferably 120 to 80 mm inner radius on the inner surface with a To provide EL arrangement.

It is also possible with the inventive method to provide substrates with any external radii on the outer surface with an EL device. The method is preferably used on substrates having an outer radius of more than 1 mm, preferably on substrates having an outer radius of 5 mm to 500 mm, more preferably of 10 mm to 200 mm, very particularly preferably of 20 mm to 100 mm.

Moreover, it is still possible to use substrates in the process according to the invention which are already in use or, for example, can not be provided with EL arrangements due to their size with prior art processes.

As already mentioned, the method according to the invention is characterized in particular in that all the layers of the EL element or the EL array are applied by a spray application. Thus, the appropriate compositions used to make the individual layers must be in an embodiment that allows the compositions to be applied by spraying. This applies in particular to the viscosity of the compositions and to the tendency of the individual constituents of the sprayable compositions to sedimentation.

The thickness of the layers which are applied during spraying are for the electrodes components BA and BE 1 to 10 μm, preferably 1 to 5 μm, for the pigment layer, component BC, 10 to 80 μm, preferably 20 to 70 μm, particularly preferably 30 to 60 microns, for the insulating layer (s) BB and / or BD independently 5 to 50 microns, preferably 15 to 30 microns and for the protective layer CA 5 to 70 microns, preferably 10 to 60 microns.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the application of the individual functional layers takes place by computer-controlled spray application, so that as exact as possible a coating of the substrates is possible.

By means of the method according to the invention, it is also possible to provide film formats and sizes with an electroluminescent arrangement which are not manageable or economically feasible with other methods.

The present invention may also be used to fabricate an EL device having multiple EL devices mounted on a substrate in the manner described above. The individual on EL applied according to invention arrangements can, if they are controlled differently, provide different EL effects. This relates in particular to the production of different colors and / or brightnesses on a substrate by more than one EL arrangement produced according to the invention.

Another object of the present invention is an electroluminescent element, which is obtainable by one of the method described above.

Another object of the present invention is the use of an electroluminescent element as described above as a decorative element and / or lighting element indoors or for outdoor use, preferably on the outer facades of buildings, in or on furnishings, in or on land, air or water vehicles or in the advertising industry.

• Beispiel 1 - Herstellung einer EL-Lampe mittels Sprühapplikation

The present invention will be further described by the following example, without limiting it to:

• Example 1 - Preparation of an EL lamp by means of spray application

On a metal plate (17) a Makrofol - polycarbonate film was attached as a substrate (6) of Bayer MaterialScience with adhesive strips (18) on the front sides at the edge.

The suspension for the preparation of the front electrode (first electrode) (7) was placed in a plastic cup and stirred by hand. It became a dry / misted cloister applied. The film was then dried in a drying oven at 80 ° C for 60 minutes.

The suspension for the preparation of the electroluminescent layer (9) was placed in a plastic cup and stirred by hand. A dry / fogged cloister was applied. The film was then dried in a drying oven at 80 ° C for 60 minutes.

The suspension for the preparation of the insulating layer (8) was placed in a plastic cup and stirred by hand. A dry / fogged cloister was applied. The film was then dried in a drying oven at 80 ° C for 45 minutes.

To apply the back electrode (second electrode) (10), the same suspension was used, with which the front electrode (7) was already applied. A dry / fogged cloister was applied. The film was then dried in a drying oven at 80 ° C for 60 minutes.

The busbars (19) were then applied with a brush on the front and back electrodes. For this, strips about 5 mm wide were applied with the silver paste Acheson Electrodag PM-470 (Acheson Colloid B.V., 9679 ZG Scheemda, Holland).

The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the following figures.

(1)

Elektrolumineszenz-Element

(2)

Elektrolumineszenz-Anordnung

(3)

Elektrolumineszenz-Emission

(4)

Elektrolumineszenz-Inverter

(5)

Netzgerät

(6)

Netzeinspeisung

(7)

Kapazitive kontaktlose Energieübertragung

(8)

Substrat

(9)

erste Elektrode

(10)

Isolationsschicht

(11)

Elektrolumineszenzschicht

(12)

zweite Elektrode

(13)

Schutzschicht

(14)

kapazitive Kopplungsfläche

(15)

kapazitiver Kopplungsabstand

(16)

Reflektionsschicht

(17)

graphische Gestaltung

(18)

Isolationsschicht

(19)

Metallplatte

(20)

Klebestreifen

(21)

Busbar

• Figur 1 zeigt eine durch das erfindungsgemäße Verfahren erhältliche EL-Element (1) umfassend die EL-Anordnung (2), welche auf einem dreidimensionalen Substrat (8) aufgetragen ist. Die Oberfläche des Substrats (8) ist mit entsprechenden EL-Anordnungen ausgestattet, so dass eine EL-Emission (3) erfolgt. Die Ansteuerung der EL-Anordnung (2) (umfassend die Schichten der ersten Elektrode (9) und zweiten Elektrode (12)) erfolgt durch eine kapazitive kontaktlose Energieübertragung (7), wobei die Energiezufuhr über einen EL-Inverter (4) erfolgt. Der EL-Inverter (4) ist mit einem Netzgerät (5) verbunden, welches durch eine Netzeinspeisung (6) gespeist wird. In dem Netzgerät herrscht üblicherweise eine Kleinspannung von weniger als 42 V-DC. In Figur 1 sind darüber hinaus die Abschnitte A und B dargestellt, welche in den Figuren 2 bis 4 näher beschrieben werden.
• Figur 2 zeigt einen Ausschnitt A eines erfindungsgemäßen EL-Elements (1), welches ebenfalls in Figur 1 dargestellt ist. In dem Ausschnitt A ist der strukturelle Aufbau der erfmdungsgemäß erhältlichen EL-Anordnung ersichtlich. Dem gemäß wird auf ein dreidimensional ausgebildetes Substrat (8) zunächst eine erste Elektrode (9) und anschließend eine Isolationsschicht (10) aufgetragen. Anschließend folgt die Elektrolumineszenzschicht (11) mit EL-Pigmenten sowie eine Schicht einer zweiten transparente Elektrode (12). Abschließend ist eine Schutzschicht (13) vorgesehen. Wie der Figur 2 zu entnehmen ist, ist das Substrat (8) dreidimensional verformt. Aufgrund der Sprühapplikation der einzelnen funktionellen Schichten ist es möglich, dass dreidimensionale Substrat mit einer entsprechenden EL-Anordnung (2) zu versehen.
• Figur 3 zeigt einen weiteren Ausschnitt A eines erfmdungsgemäßen EL-Elements, welcher in Figur 1 dargestellt ist. Auch hier wird auf einem Substrat (8), welches dreidimensional verformt ist zunächst eine erste Elektrode (9) durch Sprühapplikation aufgetragen. Anschließend wird eine Reflektionsschicht (16) auf die erste Elektrode (9) aufgebracht. Unter Anwendung der Sprühapplikation werden anschließend eine EL-Schicht (11) sowie eine entsprechende zweite Elektrode (12) aufgetragen. Auf die zweite Elektrode (12) ist eine graphische Gestaltung (17) aufgebracht. Den Abschluss der EL-Anordnung bildet ebenfalls eine Schutzschicht (13).
• Figur 4 zeigt den in Figur 1 dargestellten Ausschnitt B. Ersichtlich ist ein dreidimensional verformtes, nichtleitendes Substrat (8). Dieses dreidimensional verformte Substrat (8) weist eine unebene Oberfläche auf. Auf dieses dreidimensionale Substrat werden die erste Elektrode (9), die Isolationsschicht (10), sowie eine weitere Isolationsschicht (18) aufgetragen. Dabei erfolgt die Auftragung der ersten Elektrode (8) sowie der Isolationsschichten (9) und (18) durch Sprühapplikation. Auf die weitere Isolationsschicht (18) wird eine EL-Schicht (11) aufgetragen. Auf die EL-Schicht (11) wird eine zweite Elektrode (12) sowie eine Schutzschicht (13) aufgetragen. Die Ansteuerung der ersten Elektrode (9) sowie der zweiten Elektrode (12) erfolgt durch die kapazitive Kopplungsfläche (14), wobei der kapazitive Kopplungsabstand (15) eingezeichnet ist.
• Figur 5 zeigt ein dreidimensionales verformtes EL-Element (1) mit graphischer Gestaltung umfassend mehrere EL-Anordnungen (2), wobei der Ausschnitt E in Figur 6 näher dargestellt ist.
• Figur 6 zeigt ein elektrisch nicht leitendes Substrat (8), welches dreidimensional verformt ist. Auf das dreidimensionale Substrat (8) ist die ersten Elektrode (9) aufgetragen. Auf diese erste Elektrode (9) ist eine Isolationsschicht (10) aufgetragen. Das EL-Element (1), das in Figur 6 dargestellt ist, zeigt einen nicht geschlossenen Auftrag der EL-Schicht (11). So ist die nur im Mittelbereich des dargestellten Substrates vorgesehen, dass die EL-Schicht (11) auf der Isolationsschicht (10) aufgetragen ist. Der Bereich der Isolationsschicht (10), welcher nicht von einer EL-Schicht (11) bedeckt ist, wird von einer weiteren Isolationsschicht (18) bedeckt. Auf die Schicht, welche dann durch die EL-Schicht (11) bzw. die weitere Isolationsschicht (18) gebildet wird, wird anschließend eine zweite Elektrode (12) aufgetragen. Auf die zweite Elektrode (12) wird eine Schutzschicht (13) aufgetragen.
• Figur 7 zeigt eine Möglichkeit, ein mit einer EL-Anordnung versehenes beliebiges dreidimensional verformtes Objekt über kapazitive Kopplungsflächen (14) zu kontaktieren. Die Kopplungsflächen können dabei konzentrisch ineinander liegen, so dass ein Kontakt den anderen umschließt. Die Kopplungsflächen können jedoch auch nebeneinander liegen. Dabei muss ihr Abstand groß genug sein um die beiden Flächen elektrisch voneinander zu isolieren.
• Figur 8 zeigt die in Figur 7 beschriebene Möglichkeit der konzentrischen Kontaktierung von oben. Der innere Kreis kann eine Elektrode der EL-Anordnung (2) versorgen (beispielsweise die erste Elektrode (9)), der äußere Kreis kann die andere Elektrode versorgen (beispielsweise die zweite Elektrode (12)).
• Figur 9 zeigt den im Beispiel 1 beschriebenen Aufbau mit Metallplatte (17), Substrat (6), Frontelektrode (7), Elektrolumineszensschicht (9), Isolationsschicht (8), Rückelektrode (10) und Busbars (19).

In the figures, the reference signs have the following meaning:

(1)

Electroluminescent element

(2)

Electroluminescent arrangement

(3)

Electroluminescence emission

(4)

EL inverter

(5)

power Supply

(6)

power supply

(7)

Capacitive contactless energy transfer

(8th)

substratum

(9)

first electrode

(10)

insulation layer

(11)

electroluminescent

(12)

second electrode

(13)

protective layer

(14)

capacitive coupling surface

(15)

capacitive coupling distance

(16)

reflective layer

(17)

graphic design

(18)

insulation layer

(19)

metal plate

(20)

tape

(21)

busbar

• FIG. 1 shows an EL element (1) obtainable by the method according to the invention comprising the EL device (2), which is applied to a three-dimensional substrate (8). The surface of the substrate (8) is equipped with corresponding EL devices, so that an EL emission (3) takes place. The activation of the EL arrangement (2) (comprising the layers of the first electrode (9) and the second electrode (12)) is effected by a capacitive contactless energy transfer (7), the energy being supplied via an EL inverter (4). The EL inverter (4) is connected to a power supply (5), which is fed by a mains supply (6). The power supply usually has a low voltage of less than 42 V DC. In FIG. 1 In addition, the sections A and B are shown, which in the FIGS. 2 to 4 be described in more detail.
• FIG. 2 shows a section A of an inventive EL element (1), which also in FIG. 1 is shown. In the section A, the structural structure of the EL arrangement obtainable according to the invention can be seen. Accordingly, a first electrode (9) and then an insulating layer (10) are first applied to a three-dimensional substrate (8). This is followed by the electroluminescent layer (11) with EL pigments and a layer of a second transparent electrode (12). Finally, a protective layer (13) is provided. Again FIG. 2 can be seen, the substrate (8) is three-dimensionally deformed. Due to the spray application of the individual functional layers, it is possible to provide the three-dimensional substrate with a corresponding EL arrangement (2).
• FIG. 3 shows a further section A of an inventive EL element, which in FIG. 1 is shown. Again, on a substrate (8), which is deformed three-dimensionally, first a first electrode (9) is applied by spray application. Subsequently, a reflection layer (16) is applied to the first electrode (9). Using the spray application, an EL layer (11) and a corresponding second electrode (12) are subsequently applied. On the second electrode (12) a graphic design (17) is applied. The conclusion of the EL arrangement also forms a protective layer (13).
• FIG. 4 shows the in FIG. 1 shown section B. Obvious is a three-dimensionally deformed, non-conductive substrate (8). This three-dimensionally deformed substrate (8) has an uneven surface. On this three-dimensional substrate, the first electrode (9), the insulating layer (10), and a further insulating layer (18) are applied. In this case, the application of the first electrode (8) and the insulation layers (9) and (18) by spray application takes place. On the further insulation layer (18) an EL layer (11) is applied. On the EL layer (11) is a second electrode (12) and a protective layer (13) applied. The activation of the first electrode (9) and of the second electrode (12) takes place through the capacitive coupling surface (14), wherein the capacitive coupling distance (15) is shown.
• FIG. 5 shows a three-dimensional deformed EL element (1) with graphical design comprising a plurality of EL arrangements (2), wherein the section E in FIG. 6 is shown in more detail.
• FIG. 6 shows an electrically non-conductive substrate (8) which is three-dimensionally deformed. On the three-dimensional substrate (8), the first electrode (9) is applied. On this first electrode (9) an insulating layer (10) is applied. The EL element (1), which in FIG. 6 is shown, shows a non-closed order of the EL layer (11). Thus, the only provided in the central region of the substrate shown that the EL layer (11) is applied to the insulating layer (10). The region of the insulating layer (10) which is not covered by an EL layer (11) is covered by a further insulating layer (18). A second electrode (12) is subsequently applied to the layer, which is then formed by the EL layer (11) or the further insulation layer (18). On the second electrode (12), a protective layer (13) is applied.
• FIG. 7 shows a way to contact an arbitrary three-dimensionally deformed object provided with an EL device via capacitive coupling surfaces (14). The coupling surfaces may be concentric with each other, so that one contact encloses the other. However, the coupling surfaces can also be next to each other. Their distance must be large enough to electrically isolate the two surfaces from each other.
• FIG. 8 shows the in FIG. 7 described possibility of concentric contacting from above. The inner circuit may supply one electrode of the EL device (2) (for example, the first electrode (9)), the outer circuit may supply the other electrode (for example, the second electrode (12)).
• FIG. 9 shows the structure described in Example 1 with metal plate (17), substrate (6), front electrode (7), electroluminescent layer (9), insulating layer (8), back electrode (10) and busbars (19).

Claims (15)

Method for producing an EL element (1) comprising at least one substrate (8), component A, and at least one EL device (2), by spraying the layers of the EL device (2), comprising the following steps: a) spraying the first electrode (9) onto the substrate (8) or onto one or more insulation layers (a) applied to the substrate (8), b) spraying the EL layer (11), c) spraying the second electrode (12). A method according to claim 1, characterized in that before or after the spraying of the EL layer (11) an insulation layer (10) is sprayed. Method according to one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that one or more conductor track (s) (21), is sprayed or be. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that after spraying the second electrode (12), a protective layer (13), is sprayed. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the substrate (8) has a flatness tolerance of 0.1 mm to 100 mm per meter and / or an inner radius of 1000 mm to 10 mm and / or an outer radius of more than 1 mm has. EL element (1) having a flatness tolerance of 1 mm to 50 mm per meter and / or an inner radius of 500 mm to 20 mm, and / or an outer radius of 5 mm to 500 mm. EL element (1) according to claim 7, characterized in that it can be driven by capacitive energy transfer. Suspension for producing the electrodes (9; 12) for an EL element (1), characterized in that the suspension is 0.025 to 0.9% by weight, 0.05 to 0.7% by weight, particularly preferably 0.075 to Contains 0.6% by weight of poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene). Suspension according to claim 8, characterized in that it contains: 10 to 90 wt .-%, preferably 20 to 70 wt .-%, particularly preferably 30 to 60 wt .-% of an aqueous dispersion of poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) with polystyrene sulfonate, From 35 to 80% by weight of solvent selected from dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), N, N-dimethylformamide, N, N-dimethylacetamide, ethylene glycol, glycerol, sorbitol, methanol, ethanol, isopropanol, N-propanol, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, dimethylaminoethanol or water or mixtures of two or three or more of these solvents, 0.3 to 2.5% by weight of interfacial additive and adhesion promoter, preferably based on gamma-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane with methanol or acetylene glycol-based nonionic surfactants, and 0.5 to 6 wt .-%, preferably 3 to 5 wt .-% binder, preferably based on aqueous polyurethane dispersions. Suspension according to claim 8, characterized in that it has a viscosity of 230 to 245 mPa · s. Suspension for producing an electroluminescent layer (11) for an EL element (1), characterized in that the suspension contains: From 30 to 90% by weight, preferably from 35 to 80% by weight, particularly preferably from 45 to 70% by weight, of ZnS crystals, From 10 to 40% by weight, preferably from 15 to 35% by weight, of binder selected from one- and two-component polyurethanes, 1 to 50 wt .-%, preferably 2 to 30 wt .-%, particularly preferably 5 to 15 wt .-% of solvent selected from ethoxypropyl acetate, ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, methoxypropyl acetate, acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone, cyclohexanone, toluene, xylene, solvent naphtha 100 or any mixtures of two or more of these solvents, 0.1 to 2 wt .-% leveling agent, and 0.01 to 10 wt .-%, preferably 0.05 to 5 wt .-%, particularly preferably 0.1 to 2 wt .-% rheology additives. Suspension according to claim 11, characterized in that it has a viscosity of 1740 to 1810 mPa · s. Suspension for producing an insulation layer (10) for an EL element (1), characterized in that the suspension contains: From 5 to 80% by weight, preferably from 10 to 75% by weight, particularly preferably from 40 to 70% by weight, of insulating material selected from SrTiO ₃ , KNbO ₃ , PbTiO ₃ , LaTaO ₃ , LiNbO ₃ , GeTe, Mg ₂ TiO ₄ , Bi ₂ (TiO ₃ ) ₃ , NiTiO ₃ , CaTiO ₃ , ZnTiO ₃ , Zn ₂ TiO ₄ , BaSnO ₃ , Bi (SnO ₃ ) ₃ , CaSnO ₃ , PbSnO ₃ , MgSnO ₃ , SrSnO ₃ , ZnSnO ₃ , BaZrO ₃ , CaZrO ₃ , PbZrO ₃ , MgZrO ₃ , SrZrO ₃ , ZnZrO ₃ , or mixtures of two or more of these substances, preferably selected from BaTiO ₃ or PbZrO ₃ or mixtures thereof, From 10 to 40% by weight, preferably from 15 to 35% by weight, of binder selected from one- and two-component polyurethanes, 1 to 50 wt .-%, preferably 2 to 30 wt .-%, particularly preferably 5 to 15 wt .-% of solvent selected from ethyl acetate, butyl acetate, 1-Methoxypropylacetat-2, toluene, xylene, Solvesso 100, Shellsol A or mixtures from two or more of these solvents, 0.1 to 2 wt .-% leveling agent, and 0.01 to 10 wt .-%, preferably 0.05 to 5 wt .-%, particularly preferably 0.1 to 2 wt .-% rheology additives. Suspension according to claim 13, characterized in that it has a viscosity of 1135 to 1160 mPa · s. Use of an EL element (1) according to claim 6 as a decorative element and / or lighting element indoors or for outdoor use, preferably on the outer facades of buildings, in or on furnishings, in or on land, air or water vehicles or in the advertising industry.

Images