Far infrared electrochromism in unique conducting polymer systems

We report herein the first significant infrared (IR) electrochromism in Conducting Polymers (CPs), to our knowledge, with applications in battlefield countermeasures against night vision devices, and thermal control panels for spacecraft. Thin (< 2 mm), flexible, variable area (1 cm 2 to 1 m 2 ), entirely solid state, CP flat panels were developed, showing: high Reflectance variation, e.g. 15% to 68% at 10.5 microns, 45% to 73% at 16.5 microns, and 31% to 77% at 620 nm; switching times of < 1 sec; cyclabilities of 10 5 cycles; For spacecraft application: Gier-Dunkle measurements showed Emittance variations from 0.32 to 0.79, Solar Absorptance 0.39 to 0.79; operating temperatures -35 to + 85 C; ability to withstand gamma radiation to 7.6 MRad, vacuum to 10 -7 torr. Poly(aniline) with a polymeric-matrix dopant was the primary CP used. Recent issuance of our primary US patents permit disclosure of these data and discussion of the unique device design.