Electrochromic devices incorporating Cr oxide and Ni oxide films: A comparison

Transparent films of Cr oxide and Ni oxide were made by reactive DC magnetr on sputtering in Ar + O-2 + H-2. They displayed anodic electrochromism with charge capacities similar to that of W oxide. Cr oxide was stable in acidi c environments, while Ni oxide was stable in basic environments. Electrochr omic devices were made with pristine Cr oxide or Ni oxide films operating i n conjunction with W oxide and a proton conducting electrolyte. Of the two oxides, Cr oxide film allowed device operation at a lower voltage span, whi le the device with Ni oxide film yielded a higher transmittance in the blea ched state, a larger absorptance modulation, and a more neutral color. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.