Correlation between Electrochromism and Photochromism in Photo- and Electrochromic Active WO 3

Amorphous WO 3 exhibits dual features of photochromics and electrochromics, positioning it as an ideal candidate for dual-response adaptive optics. However, limited reversible cycling stability impedes its widespread application. Given the high susceptibility of WO 3 to ion trapping during electrochromic operation, this issue bears significant implications for dual-mode photo- and electrochromic systems. In this paper, we demonstrate that ion trapping in the electrochromic process also induces commensurate photochromic performance degradation, where both electrochromic and photochromic performance can be regained through ion detrapping protocols. The synchronization between electrochromic and photochromic degradation kinetics confirms that photochromism and electrochromism share the same origin: both involving cation intercalation from the external media. Furthermore, substantial variations in photochromic kinetics across various proton donors open the avenue for developing compatible electrolyte targeting fast- and dual-responsive adaptive optics.