Constructing an Al³⁺/Zn²⁺-Based Solid Electrolyte Interphase to Enable Extraordinarily Stable Al³⁺-Based...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• The interface between electrochromic (EC) electrodes and ionic conductors is critical for high-performance and stable EC devices (ECDs).
• Tungsten oxide (WO3) is a common material for EC electrodes, but its performance can be limited by interfacial issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of an atomic layer deposition-grown aluminum-doped zinc oxide (ALD-AZO) interfacial layer on the performance and stability of WO3 thin films in Al3+-based complementary ECDs.
• To understand the mechanisms behind the observed performance enhancements.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of Al3+-based complementary ECDs with and without an ALD-AZO interfacial layer on WO3 thin films.
• Characterization of EC performance, including cyclability, coloration efficiency, and transmittance modulation.
• Analysis of the interfacial layer's effect on the WO3 band gap and electron transport.

Main Results:

• Introduction of the ALD-AZO interfacial layer significantly improved EC performance and stability.
• Extraordinary cyclability exceeding 20,000 cycles was achieved.
• Outstanding coloration efficiency (109.69 cm2 C-1) and maximum transmittance modulation (63.44%@633 nm) were observed.

Conclusions:

• The ALD-AZO interfacial layer effectively regulates the band gap of WO3, promotes electron transport, and forms a robust solid electrolyte interphase.
• These enhancements contribute to superior electrode protection during cycling.
• The findings provide valuable insights for developing advanced multivalent Al3+-based ECDs with improved EC performance.