Solution-type electrochromic devices based on D-π-D thiophene derivatives

Three new D-π-D thiophene derivatives ( TPAThTPA , TPAThThTPA , and TPATTTPA ) are synthesized and employed to fabricate the solution-typed electrochromic devices . Density functional theory (DFT) calculation, electrochemical and photophysical characterization is carried out to study their electrochromic performances. When the applied voltage is conducted, the UV–vis absorption wavelength does not shift, but the absorbance increases significantly, accompanied by electrochromic behaviors. After removing the applied voltage, the self-bleaching phenomenon occurs. In addition, electrochromic devices based on these three D-π-D thiophene derivative solutions are fabricated by a simple process. In a word, this research provides a feasible method for developing new electrochromic materials and devices.