Conducting Polymer Based Actively IR Modulating Electrochromics

In recent and ongoing work, this firm has developed, for a classified IR-counter-measures applications, large area, active electrochromic flat panel displays (FPDs), based on unique Conducting Polymer (CP) systems and a unique device design. These are very thin (less than 3 mm) and flexible, and exhibit high contrast in the mid/-far-IR (up to 93% Diffuse Reflectance range at 10 microns). Switching times of less than 1 sec, cyclabilities to 10**5 cycles, and charge capacities of 0.7 mC/cm**2 have been demonstrated, with seamless larger areas easily constructible. The present project will adapt and further develop this technology for active space-craft thermal control. Emissivity and absorptance characteristics will be measured and modeled, with special emphasis on adaptation to spacecraft thermal control requirements.