Electrochromism of interpolyelectrolyte poly(pyridinium) – Poly(styrene sulfonate) complexes

• Interpolymer complexes (IPEC) based on electrochromic polyviologen was synthesized.
• Non-soluble IPEC showed deteriorated electrochromic characteristics.
• Soluble IPEC showed improved electrochromic characteristics.
• Non-soluble IPEC composition does not depend on initial blend composition.

This paper represents a synthesis method of both soluble and insoluble interpolyelectrolyte complexes due to interaction of poly(4,4-(1,4-phenylene)bis(2,6-diphenylpyridinium) triflate) (PV) and sodium polystyrene sulfonate (PSS). Systematic evaluation of electrochromic properties of the both type complexes is given compared to the pristine electrochromic PV. The complexes composition and properties were studied as a function of polyanion and polycation concentrations and their ratios. It was demonstrated that non-stoichiometric insoluble complexes PV/PSS with an excess of PSS are formed in the initial mutual solvent DMF/H2O 5/1. Films prepared from that mixtures exhibit slower response times and deteriorated electrochromic stability. Non-stoichiometric interpolymer complexes PV/PSS with an excess of PV remain soluble in the initial solvent. Corresponding films have a superior electrochromic contrast than films obtained from the solution of pristine PV under identical conditions. Thus, optimum mixture ratios were found to obtain soluble interpolymer complexes with the advanced properties that may open up new possibilities for making novel electrochromic devices.

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