Abstract: A thick film, electroluminescent lamp and method of construction in which a single non-hygroscopic binder is used for all layers (with the optional exception of the rear electrode), thereby reducing delamination as a result of temperature changes and the susceptibility to moisture. The use of a common binder for both phosphor and adjacent dielectric layers reduces lamp failure due to localized heating, thus increasing light output for a given voltage and excitation frequency, and increasing the ability of the lamp to withstand overvoltage conditions without failure. Layers may be provided on both sides of a common rear electrode to provide a lamp with two independently operable lamp surfaces. A front electrode may be exposed on a side of the lamp with the rear electrode by cutting the layers down to the front electrode after the layers have been joined.

Abstract: A flexible, thick film, electroluminescent lamp and method of construction in which a single non-hygroscopic binder is used for all layers (with the optional exception of the rear electrode), thereby reducing delamination as a result of temperature changes and the susceptibility to moisture. The binder includes a fluoropolymer resin, namely polyvinylidene fluoride, which has ultraviolet radiation absorbing characteristics. The use of a common binder for both phosphor and adjacent dielectric layers reduces lamp failure due to localized heating, thus increasing light output for a given voltage and excitation frequency, and increasing the ability of the lamp to withstand overvoltage conditions without failure. The lamps may be made by screen printing, by spraying, by roller coating or vacuum deposition, although screen printing is preferred. By the multilayer process, unique control of the illumination is achieved.