Electrochromic composites films composed of MoO3 doped by tungsten atoms with remarkable response speed and color rendering efficiency via electrochemical deposition

Molybdenum oxide (MoO3) stands out as a predominant electrochromic material, finding extensive applications in sustainable photoelectric devices such as multifunctional smart windows. This study introduces an innovative approach to fabricating electrochromic composite films by doping molybdenum oxide with tungsten atoms through electrochemical deposition on indium tin oxide (ITO) substrates. Electrochemical and optical measurements demonstrate the films' superior performance in terms of switching time and coloring efficiency. Analyses using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy suggest the formation of a distinct lamellar structure during the electrodeposition process. Additionally, the incorporation of tungsten atoms appears to facilitate an effective W-O-Mo bonding connection. This introduction of W atoms may create a new doping energy level. The unique lamellar structure enhances the number of electrochemically active sites, while the W-O-Mo coupling acts as a channel for electron migration. Consequently, the switching time decreased from 5.5 s to 3.9 s, and the coloring efficiency increased from 15.47 cm2 C-1 to 40.43 cm2 C-1. Furthermore, the transmittance of the W-doped MoO3 films surpasses that of the pure MoO3 films. Overall, tungsten doping improves the electrochromic properties of MoO3, indicating promising potential for further applications.

Automated summary

This study presents an innovative approach to fabricating electrochromic composite films by doping molybdenum oxide with tungsten atoms. The films demonstrate superior performance in terms of switching time, coloring efficiency, and transmittance, thanks to the unique lamellar structure and W-O-Mo bonding connection. Tungsten doping improves the electrochromic properties of MoO3, indicating promising potential for further applications.