Development of Patterning Methods for Functional Electrochromic Devices by Using Direct Laser Processing

This study explores the fabrication and characterization of a tungsten trioxide (WO3) electrochromic device (ECD) using laser processing. The process involves depositing a WOx thin film onto a fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) substrate via spin coating, followed by selective laser treatment: laser sintering or laser ablation. The patterning of electrochromic devices provides both aesthetic value and additional informative display properties. Furthermore, the relationship between the transparency of the patterned WO3 film and its thermal insulation performance was investigated. The patterned WO3 layer is then assembled with a gel-type electrolyte and a cover FTO substrate to construct the ECD.
The fabricated ECD demonstrates significant color modulation and efficient infrared wavelength blocking. UV/VIS spectrometry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analyses reveal variations in transmittance and oxidation state changes in tungsten ions. Additionally, basic flexibility tests were conducted to verify the potential for developing flexible electrochromic devices.
In conclusion, this study presents a tunable WO3-based ECD with promising applications in display technologies.