Electrochromic-Induced Rechargeable Aqueous Batteries: An Integrated Multifunctional System for Cross-Domain Applications

Abstract

Multifunctional electrochromic-induced rechargeable aqueous batteries (MERABs) integrate electrochromism and aqueous ion batteries into one platform, which is able to deliver the conversion and storage of photo-thermal-electrochemical sources. Aqueous ion batteries compensate for the drawbacks of slow kinetic reactions and unsatisfied storage capacities of electrochromic devices. On the other hand, electrochromic technology can enable dynamically regulation of solar light and heat radiation. However, MERABs still face several technical issues, including a trade-off between electrochromic and electrochemical performance, low conversion efficiency and poor service life. In this connection, novel device configuration and electrode materials, and an optimized compatibility need to be considered for multidisciplinary applications. In this review, the unique advantages, key challenges and advanced applications are elucidated in a timely and comprehensive manner. Firstly, the prerequisites for effective integration of the working mechanism and device configuration, as well as the choice of electrode materials are examined. Secondly, the latest advances in the applications of MERABs are discussed, including wearable, self-powered, integrated systems and multisystem conversion. Finally, perspectives on the current challenges and future development are outlined, highlighting the giant leap required from laboratory prototypes to large-scale production and eventual commercialization.

Temperature Sensors Integrated with an Electrochromic Readout toward Visual Detection

“…However, the above temperature sensors can only display temperature values to a certain extent, but a comprehensive detailed analysis of temperature visualization monitoring is still very lacking. Meanwhile, electrochromic devices (ECDs) have outstanding characteristics in color display and other aspects. , Hence, the combination of ECDs and temperature sensors to indicate temperature may become a potential development direction of temperature indication technology in the future energy-saving society.…”

“…Meanwhile, electrochromic devices (ECDs) have outstanding characteristics in color display and other aspects. 38,39 Hence, the combination of ECDs and temperature sensors to indicate temperature may become a potential development direction of temperature indication technology in the future energy-saving society.…”

Smart Aqueous Zinc Ion Battery: Operation Principles and Design Strategy

“…Currently, the electronic devices operate at the visible region is desirable for detecting the real‐time working variation in the devices, especially in the fields of the smart electronic devices. [ 96 ] The electrochromic energy storage devices have attracted great interest recently, especially in the fields of smart windows, electrochromic displays, and electronic skins. [ 97–99 ] Furthermore, the optical properties such as the reflectance, transmittance, and absorptivity of the electrochromic materials would undergo a stable and reversible color change under the application of the electric field or the change of the external voltage, which is called electrochromism.…”

“…[ 97–99 ] Furthermore, the optical properties such as the reflectance, transmittance, and absorptivity of the electrochromic materials would undergo a stable and reversible color change under the application of the electric field or the change of the external voltage, which is called electrochromism. [ 35,96 ] These color changes in the devices would reflect the important information of these devices and play an important role in warning or remaindering functions. Consequently, these electrochromic materials and energy storage devices can be integrated by utilizing the voltage change of the battery during the charging and discharging processes to achieve the diversified display or even the early warning function.…”

“…It is also a significant response parameter to detect the energy harvesting and supply in a working electronic device. [ 96,183 ] To obtain the smart ZIB with the sustainable energy harvesting property is also attractive in practical applications and the corresponding design of the active electrodes or the smart packages also promotes the production landing in future.…”