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A Multimode Dynamic Color-Changing Device for Smart Windows Based on Integrating Thermochromic and Electrochromic
Chang Xiao1, Chengcheng Wang1, Liping Zhang1
1Key Laboratory of Science & Technology of Eco-Textile, Jiangnan University, Ministry of Education, Wuxi, Jiangsu 214122, China.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|October 29, 2024
Summary
A novel multimode dynamic color-changing device integrates electrochromic viologen dyes and thermochromic hydroxypropyl acrylate. This T/ECD offers four optical states, controllable by heat and voltage, for advanced smart windows and displays.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Optoelectronics
Background:
- Electrochromic and thermochromic materials are key for smart windows and displays.
- Current limitations include single color and response modes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a multimode dynamic color-changing device (T/ECD) overcoming single-mode limitations.
- To integrate electrochromic and thermochromic properties for enhanced optical regulation.
Main Methods:
- Integration of synthetic viologen dyes (electrochromic) and hydroxypropyl acrylate (HPA, thermochromic).
- Fabrication of T/ECD devices with tunable optical states.
- Testing of switching speeds and cycling stability.
Main Results:
- Achieved four optical states: colorless transparent, tinted transparent, colorless opaque, and tinted opaque.
- Optimized T/ECD switched color at 1.2 V (15 s) and opacity at >34 °C (46 s).
- Demonstrated colorful T/ECDs with excellent cycling stability using red, green, and blue viologen dyes.
Conclusions:
- The developed T/ECD offers independent/coordinate control of optical states via heat and voltage.
- This technology has significant potential for energy-saving buildings, advanced displays, and information masking/storage.
