Efficient electrochromic performance of anatase TiO2 thin films prepared by nebulized spray deposition method

Anatase TiO2 thin films with high optical modulation, better reversibility, fast switching time, and enhanced coloration efficiency were prepared by nebulized spray pyrolysis technique. X-ray diffraction study confirmed the formation of anatase phase TiO2 in the present work. This inference was substantiated from the Raman active modes of A1g, 2 B1g, and 3 Eg corresponding to O–Ti–O bond in TiO2. The PL emission peak observed at 400 nm is corresponds to the indirect transition (X1b → Γ3) from the conduction band to the valence band. The average reflectance of TiO2 thin films was varied from 31 to 20%. The electrochemical study revealed the excellent performance of TiO2 films with high optical modulation (ΔT = 61%), fast switching kinetics (tb = 1.6 s, tc = 2.4 s), good coloration efficiency (100 cm2 C−1), and better reversibility (86%). The efficient electrochromic behavior of films may be due to the smooth microstructure nature, which provides an easy pathway for the diffusion and charge transfer process of Li+ ions in TiO2 film matrix. The fast transfer of Li+ ion was realized from the electrochemical impedance spectroscopic measurement.