Bistable Black Electrochromic Windows Based on the Reversible Metal Electrodeposition of Bi and Cu

Optically tunable windows based on reversible metal electrodeposition are an exciting alternative to static lighting control methods such as blinds and shades. In this Letter, we study reversible Bi/Cu electrodeposition on Pt-modified transparent conducting electrodes for electrochromic applications. Spectroelectrochemical measurements combined with scanning electron microscopy images indicate that the electrolytic Bi:Cu ratio drastically affects the electrode switching speed and electrodeposit morphology, which we propose is due to the galvanic displacement of Bi by Cu+. These findings allow us to construct 25 cm2 black dynamic windows with reversibly tunable transmission at fast switching speeds. This rapid cycling can be maintained over 1000 cycles without degradation in contrast or uniformity. Lastly, the Bi–Cu windows consume no power to maintain either their transparency or opacity, making them promising candidates for energy-efficient devices. Their combination of fast switching, color neutrality, durable cycling, and dual-state resting stability make dynamic windows based on Bi–Cu reversible electrodeposition promising and competitive alternatives to traditional electrochromic materials.