All-in-one Photoelectrochromic Device Enabling Designable Coloration and Real-Time Light Adaptation

Abstract

Solar-powered electrochromic devices (SP-ECDs) are promising for zero-energy smart optical systems, holding potential applications in energy-saving windows, augmented reality displays, and adaptive camouflage. State-of-the-art SP-ECDs typically rely on the physical stacking of solar cells and electrochromic components. This approach inevitably introduces multiple heterogeneous interfaces, which severely limit the switching speed, operational stability, and color diversity of integrated devices. Herein, we introduce an all-in-one photoelectrochromic device that molecularly integrates dye-sensitized photoanodes and viologen electrochromic molecules within a single redox electrolyte. This innovative device achieves a record switching time of ∼7 s under optical, electrical, or hybrid stimuli, enabling real-time light adaptation to various dynamic illumination situations. The device presents high operational stability, enduring over 103 cycles under continuous AM 1.5G illumination. Furthermore, it offers a wide range of designable color palette (red, green, blue, purple, and cyan) with uniform, full-frame coloring appearance, facilitating further aesthetic and functional designs. Our strategy establishes a monolithic architecture that overcomes the integration complexity in conventional SP-ECDs, inspiring the creation of customized material platforms and the advancement of self-adaptive optoelectronics.