Electrochromic Properties of Pd-capped Mg–Ni Switchable Mirror Thin Films

Abstract

Switchable mirrors composing magnesium-nickel thin films with a palladium top layer are prepared by dc magnetron sputtering. Electrochromic properties of the switchable mirrors are investigated by means of various electrochemical methods. Electrochromic switching conditions influenced by the composition of the Mg–Ni alloy thin film and the thickness of palladium and Mg–Ni layers are investigated to obtain optimal switching behavior and transparent films using cyclic voltammetry and optical measurements. The values of the diffusion coefficients of hydrogen in Mg₂Ni, Mg₄Ni, and Mg₆Ni films are estimated using a potential-step method.