Synthesis and characterization of poly(2,5-dimethoxyaniline) for use as an electrochromic smart materials

Abstract

Colors of electrochromic smart materials are reversible when burst of charges are applied. These materials are widely used in displays, automotive industry, smart windows, and architecture. Ploy (2, 5-dimethoxyaniline) or PDMA possesses excellent properties: light weight, high electrical conductivity, environmental stability, simple doping and de-doping chemistry, and using a relatively inexpensive monomer. Due to their properties, PDMA is a candidate as electrochromic materials. The polymer was synthesized via the electrochemical polymerization method by using an oxalic acid as the supporting electrolyte. This work aims to investigate the effects of electric field strength and electrolyte type on electrochromic properties, electrical properties, and the response time. PDMA was submerged into HCI and H₂SO₄ electrolytes, and then submitted to various voltages of 0.8, 1.0, 1.2, 1.4 and 1.6 V. The transient color change was observed in both electrolytes and the time for material undergoing this change was recorded. It was observed that the response time was reduced as applied voltage increased for both HCI and H₂SO₄ electrolytes.