Electrochromic Dye Compositions for Durable Neutral-Color Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochromic (EC) devices face challenges in durability against solar radiation and electrochemical cycling, particularly when using halogenated anions, and lack effective means for achieving neutral colors in the colored state.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of functionalized dye molecules with reactive groups that are covalently attached to a polymeric matrix, use of bridged EC dyes, and combinations of viologen and phenazine/phenothiazine dyes to enhance durability and achieve neutral colors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If halogenated anions are used in EC devices, then electrochromic performance is maintained, but durability against solar radiation and electrochemical cycling deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameter by replacing halogenated anions with non-halogenated anions (such as perchlorate, tetrafluoroborate, hexafluorophosphate) in the electrolyte. This parameter change resolves the contradiction by eliminating the harmful effects of halogenated anions on durability while maintaining the necessary electrochromic performance through proper selection of alternative anion types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite electrolyte systems that combine non-halogenated anions with specific cations and solvent mixtures. This composite approach enhances durability by creating a synergistic electrolyte composition that provides both stability against solar radiation and electrochemical cycling, while maintaining effective ion transport for electrochromic operation.
2Ease of manufacture
If EC devices use traditional dye configurations, then manufacturing is simpler, but ability to achieve neutral colors is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electrochromic system into distinct functional components: separate anodic and cathodic EC materials, and independently selectable non-halogenated anions. This segmentation allows for optimized performance of each component while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through modular assembly and independent material selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs universal non-halogenated anions (such as perchlorate and tetrafluoroborate) that can be used across different EC device configurations and dye combinations. This universality provides neutral color achievement capability across multiple device types without requiring complex manufacturing procedures, as the same anion system works with various cation and dye combinations.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides EC devices with improved durability and the ability to achieve neutral colors, while maintaining effective electrochromic properties.
Implementation Method 1
Electrochromic (EC) devices are electrooptical devices which change color and/or transparency when an electrical voltage is applied
Implementation Method 2
EC devices comprise several layers of electrodes and electrolyte deposited on a substrate
Implementation Method 3
the device contains an electrolyte between the two conductors wherein the said electrolyte has at least one bridged EC dye
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides compositions of electrochromic dyes, functionalized electrochromic dyes and dye macromers which may be incorporated into electrochromic devices with tailored optical properties. The disclosure provides electrochromic devices and electrochromic materials which do not use halogenated anions. This disclosure also provides EC compositions and devices for controlling color.