Flexible electrochromic films based on CVD-graphene electrodes

Abstract

Graphene synthesized via chemical vapor deposition is a notable candidate for flexible large-area transparent electrodes due to its great physical properties and its 2D activated surface area. Electrochromic devices in optical displays, smart windows, etc are suitable applications for graphene when used as a transparent conductive electrode. In this study, various-layer graphene was synthesized via chemical vapor deposition, and inorganic WOx was deposited on the layers, which have advantageous columnar structures and W6+ and W4+ oxidation states. The characteristics of graphene and WOx were verified using optical transmittance, Raman spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The optimum transparent conductive electrode condition for controlling graphene layers was investigated based on the optical density and cyclic voltammetry. Electrochromic devices were fabricated using a three-layer graphene electrode, which had the best optical density. The graphene in the flexible electrochromic device demonstrated a potential for replacing ITO in flexible electronics.