Schematic layout of the electrochromic (EC) device

http://www.inm-gmbh.de

Contact:
Dr. M. Mennig,
Physik und Chemie des Glases
Tel.: ++49 681 9300-394
Fax: ++49 681 9300-223

• Development of large area electrochromic (EC) systems based on sol-gel techniques

Methods

• Preparation of functional coating systems via sol-gel techniques: electrochromic layer: tungsten oxide; intercalation layer: cerium oxide-titanium dioxide; transparent electrolyte: inorganic-organic nanocomposite
• Coating of transparent electrically conducting ITO-glasses (Indium-Tin-Oxide) or FTO-glasses (fluorine doped tin oxide, e.g. K-glass, TEC8) using dip-coating or spraying

Results

• Cells in the format up to 50 x 80 cm² can be routinely produced
• Reversible variation in transmission from 70 % (550 nm, bleached state) down to
  21 -25 % (coloured state)

• switching times t₈₀ (t₈₀: Time for 80 % of transmission change):
  60 s (colouration) and 30 s (bleaching) for EC-cells of 10 x 10 cm²;
  120 s (colouration), 70 s (bleaching) for EC-cells of 50 x 80 cm²

Applications

• "Smart Windows"
• Automotive glazing and sunroofs
• Active and passive displays

Benefits

• Energy saving for architectural and automotive glazing (air-conditioning costs in summer, heating costs in winter)
• Privacy effects
• Energy saving systems: only current flow during the switching period