Sol–gel derived ZnO thin film as a transparent counter electrode for WO3 based electrochromic devices

Electrochromic devices (ECDs) have the ability to show color even when electrical power is disconnected. However, challenges such as simple and cost-effective electrochromic material preparation, insufficient coloration, slow switching times, and poor cycling stability have yet to be overcome. The paper describes an electrochromic device with WO₃ thin film as the electrochromic material for the working electrode and ZnO thin film as a counter electrode fabricated on FTO glass substrates by a simple sol–gel spin coating method. The optical contrast at 600 nm of ZnO counter electrode based ECD (12.4%) is almost double that of graphite counter electrode based ECD (6.5%), showing higher efficiency and better electrochromic response. The properties of ECD devices were also examined using cyclic voltammetry and chronoamperometry measurements with results showing that the devices were stable and the charge required to tint the device (5.6 mA s) is reduced compared to typical graphite-coated counter electrode. These types of devices are promissing candidates to be used as smart windows.