Recent advances in vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) towards related applications in chromogenics and beyond: fundamentals, progress, and perspectives

Abstract

Smart multifunctional V₂O₅ is an appealing oxide for energy-saving and energy-storage applications. This review article comprehensively analyzes its most recent advances and applications. The unique electronic structure of V₂O₅ with three bands triggers peculiar smart optical properties and multi-color appearance. The colors and optical characteristics of pristine V₂O₅ films are affected by the processing growth and conditions. The multi-chromism in V₂O₅ can be controlled by various external stimuli: applied voltage, electrochromic gas type, gasochromic; light source, photochromic; and temperature, thermochromic. Fundamental comprehension of chromism and “fixed-chromism” has been discussed. Chromism in V₂O₅ is reviewed, and the related advantages, drawbacks, and potential applications are emphasized with a focus on the fundamental aspects. General strategies to enhance the coloration performances of V₂O₅ chromogenic devices (CDs) are discussed. The role of the micro–nanostructural morphologies, growth conditions, doping elements, and hybrid composite structures on smart optical devices for improving the chromic performance is also addressed. The challenges that lie ahead of the commercialization of V₂O₅-based applied research are presented.