Detailed Study of Layer-by-Layer Self-Assembled and Dip-Coated Electrochromic Thin Films Based on Metallo-Supramolecular Polymers

Electrochromic thin films of metallo-supramolecular polyelectrolytes based on Fe(OAc)(2) and 1,4-bis(2,2':6',2 ''-terpyridin-4'-yl)benzene are readily prepared by layer-by-layer (LbL) deposition or dip-coating on transparent conducting electrode surfaces. By applying a potential, we can switch the color of the films from blue to colorless. Because of the strong absorption and the fast switching speed, the color change can be observed with the eye. The devices show reversible switching and cycle stability.