Effect of Electrolyte Concentration on the Electrochromic Properties of Tungsten Oxide Thin Films

摘要

The worldwide energy crisis has drawn the attention of researchers to energy saving, energy-storing, and energy converting devices. Among them, electrochromic devices (ECDs) are being extensively studied to reduce energy consumption. Electrochromism refers to the persistent and reversible change of optical properties by an applied voltage pulse. Electrochromism has been proposed for many applications such as smart windows, rear-view mirrors, electrochromic displays, sensors, etc. The electrolyte is an indispensable component in the ECDs which strongly affects the electrochromic performance. The transport mechanism for the ions depends on the type and components of the electrolyte. Liquid electrolyte has been the electrolyte of choice owing to its high ionic conductivity. However, due to leakage issues, other alternatives such as gel-polymer electrolytes and solid electrolytes are being employed.