Flexible Electrochromic Devices from Self-Assembled Organic Molecules

This PhD project will focus on the synthesis and self-assembly of electrochromic materials based on small aromatic organic molecules. These materials can be used in devices that reversibly change colour from transparent to coloured upon the application of an external stimulus, such as a small voltage, light or heat. Such materials can be used for sensors, smart glass, optical devices etc. The project will involve the synthesis and optimisation of a variety of such molecules for a preferred colour change depending on application. Design and optimisation of the molecules will be needed to tune the conditions needed for the colour change. Functionalisation of the molecules will be carried out to aid the assembly of the small organic molecules into the aggregated structures which stabilise the charge, resulting the colour change. Once the desired colour and stimulus needed has been achieved, the materials will be processed into devices so that they can be used. This will involve using different substrates and coatings etc. so that the materials can be used for the many different possible applications. We will specifically focus on preparing coatings for smart glass, as well as wearable sensors.