Journal Article

Greyscale and Paper Electrochromic Polymer Displays by UV Patterning

Berggren, Magnus, Brooke, Robert, Edberg, Jesper, Crispin, Xavier, Jonsson, Magnus P., Engquist, Isak

2019

Overview

Electrochromic devices have important implications as smart windows for energy efficient buildings, internet of things devices, and in low-cost advertising applications. While inorganics have so far dominated the market, organic conductive polymers possess certain advantages such as high throughput and low temperature processing, faster switching, and superior optical memory. Here, we present organic electrochromic devices that can switch between two high-resolution images, based on UV-patterning and vapor phase polymerization of poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) films. We demonstrate that this technique can provide switchable greyscale images through the spatial control of a UV-light dose. The color space was able to be further altered via optimization of the oxidant concentration. Finally, we utilized a UV-patterning technique to produce functional paper with electrochromic patterns deposited on porous paper, allowing for environmentally friendly electrochromic displays.

• Publisher: MDPI AG,MDPI
• Subject: Cellulose / Conducting polymers / Conductive Polymer / Conductive polymers / Digital cellulose / Displays / Electrochromic / Electrochromic cells / Electrochromic devices / Electrochromic displays / Electrochromics / Electrochromism / Electrodes / Electrolytes / Energy efficiency / Ethanol / Glass substrates / Gray scale / Image resolution / Intelligent buildings / Internet of Things / Low temperature / Optical memory (data storage) / Optimization / Oxidizing agents / Paper displays / Paper electronics / Patterning / PEDOT / Polymerization / Polymers / Screen printing / Smart materials / Temperature / Ultraviolet radiation / Vapor phase polymerization / Vapor phases / Windows (apertures)