Dual-parameter sensing-visualization integration in a single electrochromic device for visual display

Abstract

Owing to the ability of electrochromic materials to directly convert electrical signals into color information, electrochromic technology offers a more effective approach for dual-parameter sensing with inherent visualization, compared to conventional sensor systems lacking direct visual feedback. To translate this advantage into an integrated sensing system, we developed a dual-cathode Zn2+ electrochromic device (DZECD) based on NbWOx and PANI, which enables two-dimensional color control via independent voltage modulation. Meanwhile benefiting from the water-in-salt electrolyte strategy, the DZECD achieves an exceptional optical modulation of 63.3% and outstanding cycling stability (86.3% retention after 2000 cycles) significantly surpassing the performance of a WO3/Zn system. Furthermore, a real-time dual-parameter visualization task is accomplished by integrating this high-performance DZECD with temperature and humidity sensors on a single platform, facilitating the development of intuitive and energy-efficient smart environmental monitoring systems.