PLASMONIC SEMICONDUCTOR NANOCRYSTALS FOR SPECTRALLY-SELECTIVE ELECTROCHROMIC SMART WINDOWS

Abstract

Dual-band electrochromic smart windows are a recent technology which can improve the building energy efficiency via the dynamic and independent control of near-infrared (NIR) and visible (VIS) light transmittance. Complex synthesis of the electrochromic nanocomposites, and inadequate application performance (low optical modulation, long switching time and short cycle life) are the current technical challenges in the development of dual-band electrochromic smart windows. This thesis research aims to address these current issues in the application of dual-band electrochromic smart windows by designing and synthesizing single-component dual-band electrochromic cathode materials (instead of complex nanocomposites); optimizing the intercalation/de-intercalation cations (electrolyte) for further improvements in the dual-band electrochromic performance; and carefully selecting suitable anode materials for the construction and optimization of dual-band electrochromic devices.