| Abstract [eng] |
Increasing demand for energy and the need to improve building efficiency encourage the development of smart window technologies that can control light and heat entering buildings. Electrochromic windows are a promising solution because their optical transmittance can be changed by applying electrical voltage. In this work, microstructured copper electrodes fabricated using SSAIL technology were investigated with WO₃ and PEDOT:PSS electrochromic coatings. The optical properties of SSAIL electrodes, WO₃ deposition conditions, PEDOT:PSS transmittance, and the voltage-dependent response of different structures were evaluated. WO₃ coatings were deposited by magnetron sputtering with different oxygen flow rates, while PEDOT:PSS coatings were formed by spin coating. Cyclic voltammetry measurements were also used to assess electrochemical activity and degradation. The results showed that SSAIL copper electrodes have sufficiently high optical transmittance for prototype electrochromic window structures. Higher oxygen flow during WO₃ deposition produced more transparent coatings, while PEDOT:PSS properties depended on layer thickness and deposition conditions. Prototype windows with SSAIL electrodes operated successfully and showed voltage-induced transmittance changes. The best electrochromic response was obtained for PEDOT:PSS sandwich-type structures, where transmittance recovered after polarity reversal. Single-layer WO₃ structures in H₂SO₄ electrolyte were less stable, and some samples degraded. The combined WO₃/PEDOT:PSS structure showed better reversibility than WO₃ alone. Overall, SSAIL copper electrodes are promising for electrochromic smart window prototypes, but further optimization of the electrolyte, potential range, and electrode protection is required. |
