Enhanced electrochromic characteristics induced by Au/PEDOT/Pt microtubes in WO3 based electrochromic devices

• Published in: Optical materials 2019-02, Vol.88, p.472-478
• Main Authors: Karaca, Gözde Yurdabak, Eren, Esin, Cogal, Gamze Celik, Uygun, Emre, Oksuz, Lutfi, Uygun Oksuz, Aysegul
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Electrochromic; Microtube; PEDOT; Template method; WO3
• ISSN: 0925-3467; 1873-1252
• DOI: 10.1016/j.optmat.2018.11.052

A study has been carried out on improving electrochromic performances of tungsten trioxide (WO3) thin films-based electrochromic devices (ECDs) with inclusion of gold/poly (3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/platinum (Au/PEDOT/Pt) microtubes. The deposited film characteristics were evaluated using scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS). SEM results indicated that homogeneous spreading of Au/PEDOT/Pt microtubes are successfully obtained onto the WO3 layer. The electrochromic performances such as electrochromic contrast, response times and charge transfer resistance were investigated and compared with Au/PEDOT/Pt microtubes-free system in detail. Higher optical contrast (26%) and faster response times (bleaching time (tb): 13.83 s, coloration time (tc): 19.25 s) were obtained for electrochromic device made from Au/PEDOT/Pt microtubes against an applied potential of ±2 V. Especially, Au/PEDOT/Pt microtubes-based ECD exhibited stronger electrochromic color change from transparent to blue. •Au/ PEDOT/Pt microtubes were successfully used as secondary electrochromic material in WO3-based electrochromic device.•The fastest electrochromic response times and highest optical contrast were achieved for applied potentials of ±2V.•Au/PEDOT/Pt microtubes-based ECD with excellent electrochromic stability after 1000 cycles.•Au/PEDOT/Pt microtubes are useful to improve the next generation development of WO3-based ECD.