Non-contact computer vision enables analysis of the dynamic performance of naphthalene diimide electrochromic films

Abstract

Napthalene diimide-based films show effective electrochromic behaviour, with the ability to undergo a reversible transparent-to-dark colour change following the application of an electrical potential. The response of these materials is typically measured using absorption spectroscopy, however this method can be limited, especially with strongly absorbing materials. As an alternative, described herein is the application of the Kineticolor computer vision software platform for the camera-enabled analysis of electrochromic behaviour. Beyond monitoring of the bulk colour change of the films, studying uniformity of colour, stability, and electrochemical reversibility of film response was also undertaken. The findings illustrate an expansion of the modalities avaliable for the analysis of chromic films through a non-contact, economical and more readily deployable method than traditional spectroscopic methods.