Self-Driven Infrared Electrochromic Device with Tunable Optical and Thermal Management

Electrochromic devices (ECDs) exhibiting tunable optical and thermal modulation in the infrared (IR) region have attracted extensive attention in recent years due to their attractive application prospects in both military and civilian settings. However, considering the continuous energy supply needed for driving the device operation, it is desired to develop advanced IRECDs with low energy consumption. Herein, a flexible self-driven IR-ECD is constructed for achieving variable optical and thermal management in a low-energy mode. In this device, a built-in potential difference of 1.36 V exists between the EC polyaniline cathode and the aluminum foil anode. Consequently, there is a rapid and obvious increase in the IR reflectance of the device after connecting the two electrodes. Such a self-driven reflectance contrast is over 20% at the wavelength of 1500 nm, and the coloration efficiency of the device reaches up to 93.6 cm(2). C-1. Meanwhile, the maximum apparent temperature modulation on the surface of the device reaches up to 5.6 degrees C. Then, the self-driven IR-ECD could recover to its original state driven by a solar cell, indicating good reversibility and stability. We anticipate that this work may provide a new insight into developing advanced self-driven IR-ECDs for applications in dynamic military camouflage and commercial thermal control.

Automated summary

A flexible self-driven IR-ECD was developed, enabling variable optical and thermal management in a low-energy mode with high coloration efficiency and maximum temperature modulation effect. Additionally, the device exhibited good reversibility and stability, showing potential applications in military camouflage and commercial thermal control.