FULL-COLOR REVERSIBLE SWITCHING DEVICE CONTROLLED BY ELECTROCHEMISTRY, AND ITS PREPARATION METHOD AND USE

Smart overview of the Invention

A full-color reversible switching device utilizes electrochemistry to enable color changes. The device comprises a color-changing layer, an electrolyte, and a counter electrode. The color-changing layer consists of a substrate, a conductive layer, and an active material layer, which together create a physical interference color. When an electrochemical reaction occurs between the electrolyte and either the conductive or active material layer, the thickness of the active material layer changes, allowing for a wide range of tunable colors that cover the entire color spectrum.

Technical Background

Traditional electronic displays, such as LEDs and liquid crystal displays, require continuous power to maintain their colors or patterns. This leads to unnecessary energy consumption, especially in static applications like billboards and signboards where color changes are infrequent. Previous technologies have attempted to address this issue but often only support limited color ranges or rely on basic colors without achieving a full color gamut.

Innovative Features

The proposed device overcomes limitations found in earlier technologies by allowing for reversible switching of multiple colors through electrical regulation. It operates effectively at a low voltage (under 6V) and retains the displayed colors without requiring additional energy input, making it energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. The device features high brightness and saturation, which broadens its potential applications in various fields such as energy-saving displays, decoration, anti-counterfeiting measures, and batteries.

Preparation Method

The preparation method for this electrochemical device involves several steps: forming a conductive layer on a substrate, bringing an electrolyte into contact with the conductive layer, and creating an active material layer through electrochemical deposition. Alternatively, the active material may be formed first before introducing the electrolyte. The thickness change of the active material layer during electrochemical reactions is crucial for achieving desired color variations.

Comparison with Prior Art

Unlike prior art that relies on metal ion intercalation for color changes—resulting in limited adjustments—the new device uses electro-induced thickness regulation to modify optical interference structures directly. This innovative approach allows for extensive color changes across a full spectrum in a single device, providing a significant advancement in electrochromic technology.