Disruptive Electrochromic Materials: Carbazole-Based Conjugated Polymers

Abstract

Carbazole-based conjugated polymers are revolutionizing electrochromic technology and becoming indispensable materials for cutting-edge applications. These polymers showcase exceptional electrochromic capabilities, featuring high coloration efficiency, fast switching times, and outstanding stability, all tailored to their unique structure and doping levels. This review explores the innovative realm of EC conjugated polymers, highlighting the charge transport and photoconductive role of carbazole (Cz) as a main chain building block or subunit, making these materials ideal for use in smart windows, displays, and other optoelectronic devices. The resulting polymers of Cz demonstrate diverse electrochromic behaviors, ranging from transparent to green and blue color transitions, depending on the specific structure and doping level. The presence of carbazole units within the polymer backbone or as side chain substituents allows for further tuning of the material’s properties through chemical modification. Furthermore, our review emphasizes the importance of understanding the relationship between the molecular structures of the polymers and their resulting electrochromic properties. By systematically studying the effects of different substituents, linkage positions, and polymerization techniques, researchers can gain valuable insights into the design principles that govern the performance of these materials. This knowledge is crucial for the development of next-generation electrochromic devices with improved efficiency, durability, and functionality.