Electrochromic switching with nanocrystalline TiO2 semiconductor films

Abstract
Forward biasing of transparent nanocrystalline TiO2 (anatase) films in lithium ion containing organic electrolytes leads to rapid and reversible coloration due to electron accumulation and Li+ intercalation in the anantase lattice. Absorption of > 90 percent light throughout the visible and near IR can be switched on and off within a few seconds. The nanocrystalline morphology of the film plays a primordial role in enhancing the electrochromic process. Preliminary results from the reduction of a surface attached viologen molecule leading to a blue coloration of the film are reported.