On-demand engineerable visible spectrum by fine control of electrochemical reactions.

Abstract

Tunability of optical performance is one of the key technologies for adaptive optoelectronic applications, such as camouflage clothing, displays, and infrared shielding. High-precision spectral tunability is of great importance for some special applications with on-demand adaptability but remains challenging. Here we demonstrate a galvanostatic control strategy to achieve this goal, relying on the finding of the quantitative correlation between optical properties and electrochemical reactions within materials. An electrochromic electro-optical efficiency index is established to optically fingerprint and precisely identify electrochemical redox reactions in the electrochromic device. Consequently, the charge-transfer process during galvanostatic electrochemical reaction can be quantitatively regulated, permitting precise control over the final optical performance and on-demand adaptability of electrochromic devices as evidenced by an ultralow deviation of <3.0%. These findings not only provide opportunities for future adaptive optoelectronic applications with strict demand on precise spectral tunability but also will promote in situ quantitative research in a wide range of spectroelectrochemistry, electrochemical energy storage, electrocatalysis, and material chemistry.