3D crosslinked conducting polymer network: Enhanced electrochromic performance of polycarbazole for smart window application

Abstract

In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization of a novel triazine-cored carbazole molecule featuring six carbazole units, designed for enhanced optical, electrochemical and functional performance. The electrochemical polymerization of this molecule results in a crosslinked three-dimensional (3D) conducting polymer network with high optical contrast (82 %) and exceptional transparency in its neutral state. Notably, the polymer demonstrates hydrophilic behavior upon water exposure, likely due to its functional groups, leading to observable changes in surface morphology. This hydrophilic property suggests potential applications in areas requiring controlled surface wettability, such as in biosensing and antifouling surfaces. To further evaluate its electrochromic properties, we fabricated a smart window device with PEDOT. The device exhibits high transparency in its neutral state, transitioning to a gradually deepening blue upon voltage application, demonstrating the polymer's promise for applications in smart windows and adaptive displays.