Smart windows in which the colour can be controlled by simply pressing a button are a promising solution for the reduction of energy use in buildings such as large office blocks. Windows are often the most energy inefficient part of a building, and so controlling the transmittance has the potential to significantly improve heating costs. Whilst numerous approaches exist, many suitable materials are costly to manufacture and process and so new materials could have a significant impact. Chromic materials are often made from metal based systems and do not offer a black colour and can be expensive to produce and manufacture. Our alternative is to use an organic self-assembled hydrogel-based device which is both photo- and electrochromic. The gel matrix is formed by the self-assembly of a dipeptide naphthalene diimide in water. The radical anion of the naphthalene diimide can be formed photo- or electrochemically, and leads to a desirable transition from transparent to black. The speed of response, low potential needed to generate the radical anion, cyclability of the system, temperature stability and low cost mean these devices are suitable for applications in smart windows.

Self-assembled naphthalene diimides for smart-window devices

2019 Spring National Meeting

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