50 / 2026-09-18 20:37:06

Continuous Integrated Printing of Conductive Gel-Based Multicolor Electrochromic Devices

Conductive gel electrochromics,3D printing,Multicolor display

Multicolor electrochromic devices show broad application prospects in dynamic displays, smart windows, thermal management, and anti-glare rearview mirrors. However, rapid, low-cost fabrication remains challenging because multiple materials with different electrochromic properties must be precisely integrated on one substrate to create complex, high-contrast multicolor patterns. Here, we propose a multi-material continuous integrated printing strategy with a parallel-driving architecture. Viologen, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), and polyaniline (PANI) serve as active electrochromic components. By designing conductive gel networks and optimizing ink composition and rheology, we develop three conductive gel inks with good printability and electrochromic performance. A matching gel-state electrolyte is prepared to construct an all-gel electrochromic system. The inks support direct ink writing 3D printing on various transparent conductive substrates, enabling high-resolution, complex electrochromic patterns. Using continuous multi-material printing, we fabricate an integrated three-color patterned device with rapid pattern switching and good reversibility (Fig. 1). We also construct a multicolor pixel device whose units are independently controlled and exhibit selectable pattern changes under different display configurations. This work offers a feasible additive-manufacturing route for gel-based multicolor electrochromic devices and shows potential in customized displays, low-power programmable visual interfaces, and adaptive camouflage.



Fig. 1 Continuous integrated printing of conductive gel-based multicolor electrochromic devices.