A stable near IR switchable electrochromic polymer based on an indole-substituted nickel dithiolene

Area of Science:

• Electrochemistry
• Materials Science
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Nickel dithiolene complexes are known for their unique electronic and optical properties.
• Electropolymerisation offers a versatile method for creating functional polymer films.
• Controlling optical properties via electrical stimuli is crucial for advanced materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize a novel nickel dithiolene-containing polymer.
• To investigate the electrochemical and optical switching properties of the prepared polymer film.
• To assess the stability and reversibility of the observed optical changes.

Main Methods:

• Electropolymerisation of indole-functionalized monomers containing nickel dithiolene units.
• Cyclic voltammetry to study electrochemical behavior.
• UV-Vis-NIR spectroscopy to monitor changes in absorption spectra upon applied potential.

Main Results:

• Successful synthesis of a stable nickel dithiolene-containing polymer film.
• Demonstration of fast and reversible switching of near-infrared absorption.
• Correlation between applied potential and changes in the near-infrared absorption spectrum.

Conclusions:

• The novel nickel dithiolene polymer is a promising material for electrochromic applications.
• The material exhibits excellent stability and rapid switching capabilities.
• The ability to tune NIR absorption via electrical potential opens avenues for optoelectronic devices.