Advancements in Electrochromic Technology for Multifunctional Flexible Devices

resumo

The design and investigation of electrochromic devices have advanced significantly, including distinct applications such as self-charged smart windows, aerospace interactive windows, low power flexible and ecofriendly displays, automatic dimming rearview, wearable smart textiles, military and civilian camouflage systems, electrochromic sensors, among others. Although significant progress has been made in related fields, achieving the full potential of electrochromic devices to meet the standards of maturity and practical applications remains a persistent challenge. Electrochromic devices are typically multilayered structures that can be designed as either rigid or flexible systems, depending on the type of substrate employed. Conventional electrochromic devices comprise layered structures that include transparent electrodes, electrochromic materials, ionic conductors, and ion storage materials. On the other hand, multifunctional systems integrate bifunctional materials or distinct functional layers to simultaneously achieve optical modulation and additional capabilities such as energy storage. The development of advanced materials, comprehensive electrochemical kinetic analysis, the optimization and advancement of process techniques and deposition methods, and innovative device designs are active areas of extensive global research. This review focuses on the recent advances in multifunctional electrochromic materials and devices with particular emphasis on the integration of electrochromic technology with other functional technologies. It further identifies current challenges, proposes potential solutions, and outlines future research directions focused on advancing this technology in both niche and scalable applications.

palavras-chave

TUNGSTEN-OXIDE FILMS; E-BEAM EVAPORATION; THIN-FILMS; POLYMER ELECTROLYTES; QUICK RESPONSE; PRUSSIAN BLUE; COLORATION; POWER; ELECTRODES; MULTICOLOR

categoria

Chemistry; Materials Science; Metallurgy & Metallurgical Engineering; Physics

autores

Marciel, A; Borges, J; Pereira, L; Silva, RF; Graça, M

Grupos

G3 - Materiais Eletroquímicos, Interfaces e Revestimentos

Projectos

CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials (UIDB/50011/2020)

CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials (UIDP/50011/2020)

Associated Laboratory CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials (LA/P/0006/2020)

agradecimentos

The authors acknowledge the support from CICECO-Aveiro Institute of Materials (UIDB/50011/2020 (DOI 10.54499/UIDB/50011/2020), UIDP/50011/2020 (DOI 10.54499/UIDP/500-11/2020), and LA/P/0006/2020 (DOI 10.54499/LA/P/0006/2020), via FCT/MCTES (PIDDAC)), and i3N (UIDB/50025/2020, UIDP/50025/2020, and LA/P/0037/2020 projects, as well as LISBOA-01-0247-FEDER-039985/POCI-01-0247-FEDER-039985 projects). The authors also acknowledge the support of the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) in the framework of the Strategic Funding UIDB/04650/2020. Joel Borges acknowledges FCT for his research contract funding, reference CEECINST/00156/2018/CP1642/CT0001 (https://doi.org/10.54499/CEECINST/00156/2018/CP1642/CT0001).