NiCo-mixed hydroxide nanosheets as a new electrochromic material with fast optical response

Abstract

NiCo-mixed hydroxide was synthesized with potentiostatic electrodeposition technique for electrochromic applications. Electrochromic performances of the synthesized mixed hydroxide were investigated and compared with single metal hydroxides, Ni(OH)2 and Co(OH)2. It displayed a remarkably improved optical contrast of 38.2% at 635 nm and, faster coloration response of 1 s, while the single metal hydroxides, Ni(OH)2 and Co(OH)2, exhibited optical contrasts of 24% and 17%, respectively. Enhanced electrochromic response attributed to increased porosity, active surface area, and charge transfer process due to existence of two metal ions (Ni2+ and Co2+). Therefore, NiCo-mixed hydroxide is a promising alternative platform for electrochromic cells.