Improved Coloration Efficiency and Stability of WO3 Electrochromic Devices by the Addition of Silver Nanowires

Abstract

WO3 is one of the most studied electrochromic materials due to its high coloration efficiency, strong cycling stability, and low price. Those advantages make WO3 ECD attractive to applications needing optical modulation, including smart windows and smart glasses. However, due to market demands for reduced manufacturing and operating costs, demands for improved coloration efficiency and long-term stability have been continuously raised. In this study, we attempted to improve the contact between WO3 nanoparticles and Li ions and electrons by forming a nanocomposite electrochromic layer of WO3 nanoparticles and silver nanowires. It was confirmed that this not only improves optical modulation and coloration efficiency but also improves stability. WO3 electrochromic devices with improved coloration efficiency and stability are expected to improve the performance of existing smart windows and smart glasses and be applicable to new applications such as virtual reality glasses.