- PhD researcher develops dual-functional polymer films for energy systems
- Porphyrin-based materials combine electrochromic switching and electrical energy storage
- Films without nickel, zinc and metal exhibit different optical behaviors
A University of Turku doctoral researcher has developed multifunctional materials that could eventually be used in smart windows capable of storing energy while adjusting indoor light levels.
The work focused on porphyrins, natural molecules present in biological systems such as chlorophyll and hemoglobin.
These molecules are known for their ability to participate in energy transfer and other important chemical processes.
Nature-inspired materials combine two functions
The polymer films developed in this work combine electrochromic behavior and electrical energy storage in a single material.
In this system, electrochromic materials change color when electricity is applied, while energy storage materials capture and release an electrical charge.
Combining the two functions could expand the use of smart surfaces in energy-saving technologies and other applications.
Doctoral researcher Sachin Kochrekar said porphyrins were a useful starting point because of their natural ability to transfer electrons and change their electronic states under controlled conditions.
“For example, thanks to the porphyrin structure present in chlorophyll, the plant is able to harvest energy from the sun through photosynthesis,” said Sachin Kochrekar.
“The ability of this natural molecule to transfer electrons and change its state in a controlled manner also provides an interesting starting point for us as materials scientists.”
The study uses two different approaches: a method combining porphyrins with electrically conductive compounds.
The other method connects porphyrins via molecular bridge structures to form polymer membranes without requiring specially modified raw materials.
Both methods resulted in polymer membranes exhibiting combined electrochromic and energy storage properties, although their performance depends on the synthesis route.
Small structural changes produced different results
The study also examined how changing the core component of the porphyrin structure affected the performance of the material.
He incorporated nickel, zinc, or no metal into the molecular structure and observed notable differences in behavior.
The results showed that the nickel-containing film could reversibly switch between three distinct colors, while the zinc-containing and metal-free versions switched between the two states.
Color changes occurred quickly, typically within two seconds, while the materials maintained strong visual contrast during operation.
The films retained their coloring after power was turned off, a feature that could reduce power consumption in practical applications where continuous power is not desirable.
Beyond color change, the materials were evaluated as electrochromic supercapacitors using water-based electrolytes.
Such systems are generally considered safer and more environmentally friendly than many conventional electrolytic technologies.
The experimental films demonstrated measurable energy storage capabilities and maintained performance over thousands of charge and discharge cycles.
According to the University of Turku, this is the first study of these specific porphyrin-based polymer films functioning as electrochromic supercapacitors in an aqueous electrolyte environment.
Smart windows remain a possibility for the future
There are several potential applications of this study, and the relatively low cost of producing the materials makes them relevant for further evaluation.
“The materials are inexpensive to produce, easy to control and highly adaptable and can be integrated into a wide range of applications, including flexible and stretchable substrates,” Kochrekar said.
“In the future, these materials could be used, for example, in sensor technology, flexible electronics, smart clothing and solar energy solutions. »
One potential application is window systems capable of adjusting transparency while simultaneously storing solar energy collected throughout the day.
“For example, new types of smart windows could simultaneously store solar energy and darken in direct sunlight, reducing the need for cooling in the building.”
However, the research is still in the materials development stage and additional engineering work would be required before it could appear in commercial buildings or consumer products.
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