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Fast-switching dual-cathode electrochromic smart windows for year-round building energy savings

Author

Listed:
  • Fayong Sun

    (Pusan National University)

  • Raksha Pal

    (Pusan National University)

  • Soo Yeon Eom

    (Pusan National University)

  • Jae Won Choi

    (Pusan National University)

  • Wei Zhang

    (Pusan National University)

  • Beomjin Jeong

    (Pusan National University
    Pusan National University)

  • Jong S. Park

    (Pusan National University
    Pusan National University
    Pusan National University Yangsan Hospital)

Abstract

For dual-band electrochromic smart windows to achieve widespread adoption, challenges such as slow switching, poor stability, and high power consumption must be addressed. This study introduces a polyviologen|zinc mesh|WO3 ⋅ 2H2O electrochromic energy storage device (EESD) with a PEDOT: PSS layer to enhance conductivity and prevent polyviologen degradation. By utilizing a dual-cathode design, the EESD enables fast switching and operates in four distinct modes—transparent, visible colored, near-infrared colored, and fully colored—allowing adaptive light regulation (320–2500 nm) to optimize energy efficiency across different seasons and times of day. Its self-operating and energy recovery features achieve zero energy consumption while maintaining functionality similar to conventional glass. Simulations indicate that a large-scale deployment across the U.S. can save 66.87 billion MWh, amounting to $7.35 trillion, and reduce CO2 emissions by 66.94 billion tons. With its rapid switching, long-term durability, and scalability, this device presents significant economic and environmental advantages for real-world applications.

Suggested Citation

  • Fayong Sun & Raksha Pal & Soo Yeon Eom & Jae Won Choi & Wei Zhang & Beomjin Jeong & Jong S. Park, 2025. "Fast-switching dual-cathode electrochromic smart windows for year-round building energy savings," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-12, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-64962-2
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-64962-2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Bui, Dac-Khuong & Nguyen, Tuan Ngoc & Ghazlan, Abdallah & Ngo, Tuan Duc, 2021. "Biomimetic adaptive electrochromic windows for enhancing building energy efficiency," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 300(C).
    2. Wei, Wu & Skye, Harrison M., 2021. "Residential net-zero energy buildings: Review and perspective," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 142(C).
    3. Hee, W.J. & Alghoul, M.A. & Bakhtyar, B. & Elayeb, OmKalthum & Shameri, M.A. & Alrubaih, M.S. & Sopian, K., 2015. "The role of window glazing on daylighting and energy saving in buildings," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 42(C), pages 323-343.
    4. Mustafa, Muhammad Norhaffis & Mohd Abdah, Muhammad Amirul Aizat & Numan, Arshid & Moreno-Rangel, Alejandro & Radwan, Amr & Khalid, Mohammad, 2023. "Smart window technology and its potential for net-zero buildings: A review," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 181(C).
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