Bistable Electrolyte Systems for Energy Efficient Electrochromic Paneling

The proposed research will help develop wall paneling that can change colour at the push of a button. We will improve the energy efficiency of the paneling by focusing on the ion conducting electrolyte layer that facilitates the colour change. Specifically, we will separate the electrolyte layer from one into three distinct layers. One layer will work in a manner similar to the current design, moving ions into the color changing material to affect the color change. The third layer will contain ions that become reduced in order to balance the change in charge state at the color changing electrode. The middle layer will prevent these layers from mixing in a way that would cause them to discharge, instead allowing only inert counterions to flow between the layers. The research will provide our partner, Trusscore, with a unique product and give them an edge against competitors around the globe.

Faculty Supervisor:

Loren Kaake

Student:

Partner:

Trusscore

Discipline:

Physics

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

Simon Fraser University

Program: