Self-powered electrochromic devices with tunable infrared intensity

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is an efficient way to convert ambient mechanical energy into electricity to power up portable electronics. In this work, a flexible infrared electrochromical device (IR-ECD) with stable performances was assembled with a TENG for building self-powered infrared detector with tunable intensity. As driven by TENG, the electrochromic device could be operated in the mid-IR region due to the reversible electrochromic reactions. An average infrared reflectance contrast of 46% was achieved in 8-14 μm regions and as well a clear thermal image change can be observed. This work indicates that the TENG-driven infrared electrochromical device has potential for use in self-powered camouflage and thermal control.