Ion Storage Layer for Organic Based Electrochromic Devices
Supervisor: Dr Benjamin Orimolade
School: Chemistry
Description:
The aim of this project is to develop a suitable ion storage material for an organic based electrochromic device. This will involve investigating the optical, morphological, mechanical and electrochemical properties of the material. The compatibility of the material with both the electrochromic material and gel electrolyte will be investigated and optimization of working conditions will be carried out. In recent years, much attention has been channelled to the fabrication of electrochromic devices for applications in smart windows, wearables, sensors and energy storage devices. Typically, an electrochromic material undergoes a reversible colour change upon the application of a suitable electrical potential. The electrochromic material under investigation is a water soluble naphthalene diimide. The material is unique and has been demonstrated to change colour both in solution as well as a film on a conducting substrate. Additionally, a prototype semi-solid electrochromic device has been developed using different gel electrolytes and this will find application in smart windows that can be used in aircrafts. Another major component of electrochromic devices is the ion storage layer which can improve the efficiency of an electrochromic device and also confer new applicability. Hence, this study will investigate appropriate material for an organic electrochromic device towards application for energy storage. It is expected that with the ion storage material, the constructed electrochromic device will have a dual function (reversible colour change and energy storage) and this will make the device attractive for industrial applications.