Electrochromic Microgel-Based Etalon Devices

Electrochromic devices (ECDs) are excellent candidates for electronic paper displays, which have myriad applications (e.g., e-readers, digital signs in restaurants and stores, and high-visibility road signs). Using optical devices (etalons) designed in our lab, we were able to construct color-switchable ECDs that exhibit good color retention, relatively fast switching kinetics (color switching on the minute timescale), and localized color changes. Furthermore, etalons are able to act as both the electrochromic layer and one of the conducting layers in the ECD configuration, which eliminates the need for an extra conducting layer. These devices show promise as viable future options for low-cost, low-power, and colored display devices.