MXene Electrochromic Electrodes for Fast Aqueous Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for improved electrochromic energy storage devices that provide visual indication of charge/discharge states with faster switching times and compatibility with aqueous electrolytes, overcoming challenges with conventional transparent conducting electrodes and multi-step patterning protocols.
Innovation Solution
The development of electrochromic devices using MXene materials as both active material and current collector, with a planar configuration and a thin layer of ionogel or liquid electrolyte, enabling fast switching times and compatibility with aqueous electrolytes without the need for a conductive current collector.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional transparent conducting electrodes (such as ITO) are used, then electrical conductivity is achieved, but multi-step patterning protocols and acidic electrolyte incompatibilities remain major hurdles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the separate current collector layer from the device architecture. MXene serves directly as both the active electrochromic material and the current collector, eliminating the need for conventional transparent conducting electrodes like ITO and their associated multi-step patterning protocols
Solution Approach 2:
MXene performs multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the electrochromic active material that changes color, serves as the current collector for electrical conductivity, and provides structural support. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components and simplifies the overall device architecture
2Speed
If metal oxide or conductive polymer electrochromic materials are used, then color change functionality is achieved, but switching times range from few seconds to minutes or >10 ms respectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the fundamental material parameter from traditional metal oxides or conductive polymers to MXene, a 2D transition metal carbide. This material parameter change enables ultra-fast switching (0.6 s) while maintaining electrochemical stability, as MXene's unique 2D structure and surface chemistry provide both rapid ion transport pathways and stable electrochemical windows
3Ease of manufacture
If planar electrode configuration is used, then easy integration and better rate capabilities are achieved, but conventional systems require conductive current collectors that complicate the structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the current collector function and the electrochromic active material into a single integrated MXene layer. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate current collector layers and their associated complex patterning steps, enabling simple planar fabrication while maintaining excellent rate capabilities through direct ion access to the MXene surface
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 MXene-based devices achieve ultra-fast switching rates of 0.6 seconds and transparency variation of 10-25%, addressing the limitations of existing systems and facilitating integration into small-scale electronic devices and sensors.
Implementation Method 1
Electrochromic energy storage is rapidly evolving due to its applicability in many technologies including wearable smart textiles, bifunctional supercapacitors, and miniaturized indicators. Combining the advantages of energy storage via electrochemical reactions with concomitant color change provides visual indication for charge/discharge states
Implementation Method 2
Ti3C2 shows a remarkable extinction (absorbance and scattering) peak at specific wavelength of 780 nm. The wavelength of this peak is a unique characteristic of each MXene
Implementation Method 3
Electrodes are separated by a thin (1-1000 micrometers) layer of an aqueous gel, ionogel or liquid electrolyte, composed of an acid (including but not limited to H2SO4, H3PO4) and/or a salt (including but not limited to MgSO4, Li2SO4)
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes electrochromic devices comprising transparent conductive layer acting as an electrode, an active electrochromic film, an ion conductor, and an ion storage film at least one of which comprises at least one MXene material.