Molybdenum-Modified Niobium Oxide: A Pathway to Superior Electrochromic Materials for Smart Windows and Displays

Electrochromic materials enable the precise control of their optical properties, making them essential for energy-saving applications such as smart windows. This study focuses on the synthesis of molybdenum-doped niobium oxide (Mo-Nb2O5) thin films using a one-step hydrothermal method to investigate the effect of Mo doping on the material’s electrochromic performance. Mo incorporation led to distinct morphological changes and a transition from a compact granular structure to an anisotropic rod-like feature. Notably, the MN-3 (0.3% Mo) sample displayed an optimal electrochromic performance, achieving 77% optical modulation at 600 nm, a near-perfect reversibility of 99%, and a high coloration efficiency of 89 cm2/C. Additionally, MN-3 exhibited excellent cycling stability, with only 0.8% degradation over 5000 s. The MN-3 device also displayed impressive control over color switching, underscoring its potential for practical applications. These results highlight the significant impact of Mo doping on improving the structural and electrochromic properties of Nb2O5 thin films, offering improved ion intercalation and charge transport. This study underscores the potential of Mo-Nb2O5 for practical applications in energy-efficient technologies.