Warm/cool-tone switchable thermochromic material for smart windows by orthogonally integrating properties of pillar[6]arene and ferrocene

• DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-03827-3
• Publication Date: 2018-04-24T15:57:09Z
• Authors: Sai Wang; Zuqiang Xu; Tingting Wang; Tangxin Xiao; Xiao-Yu Hu; Ying-Zhong Shen; Leyong Wang
• Keywords: Thermochromism; Pillar; Tone (literature); Cyan; Smart material

Abstract Functional materials play a vital role in the fabrication of smart windows, which can provide more comfortable indoor environment for humans to enjoy better lifestyle. Traditional windows tend possess only single functionality with purpose regulating input solar energy. However, different color tones also have great influences on human emotions. Herein, strategy orthogonal integration properties is proposed, namely thermo-responsiveness ethylene glycol-modified pillar[6]arene ( EGP6 ) and redox-induced reversible switching ferrocene/ferrocenium groups are orthogonally integrated into one system. This gives rise material cooperative non-interfering dual functions, featuring both thermochromism warm/cool tone-switchability. Consequently, obtained bifunctional fabricating not regulate energy but tone improve feelings emotions people environments.