Spray-Coated Indium Tin Hydroxide-WO₃ Nanocomposites for Dual-Band Electrochromic Smart Windows

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Electrochemistry

Background:

• Tungsten oxide (WO3) based materials are crucial for electrochromic applications.
• Enhancing conductivity and optical properties of WO3 is key for advanced smart windows.
• Tin-doped indium hydroxide (TIH) nanoparticles offer high conductivity and transparency.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize WO3/TIH nanocomposites for improved electrochromic performance.
• To investigate the effect of TIH nanoparticles on the visible and near-infrared (NIR) modulation.
• To evaluate the potential of these nanocomposites for energy-efficient smart windows.

Main Methods:

• Solution-based hydrothermal synthesis of WO3/TIH nanocomposites.
• Spray-coating of nanocomposite films onto transparent conducting electrodes.
• Electrochemical characterization including optical modulation, switching times, and cyclic stability.

Main Results:

• WO3/TIH nanocomposites exhibited reversible transparent-to-blue color transition with a -1 V bias.
• Achieved 52% optical modulation at 800 nm, rapid switching (1.2s bleach, 5s color), and 2500 cycles stability.
• Demonstrated significant visible and NIR modulation, outperforming ITO-based composites.

Conclusions:

• WO3/TIH nanocomposites show superior dual-band electrochromic properties for smart windows.
• These materials offer efficient control of visible light and infrared radiation for thermal management.
• The developed nanocomposites present a promising solution for energy-saving building applications.