Application of Gd and Pd nanoparticles in a 'new generation' switchable mirror

Abstract

'Nanoparticle route' has been utilized to fabricate a 'new generation' of switchable mirrors in which the switching properties can be tuned by controlling the nanoparticle size in the underlying Gd layer or Pd over layer. Better color neutrality, faster response time, improved optical contrast, and an enhanced stability has been observed in Gd nanoparticle layer as a direct consequence of the size-induced blue shift in the optical band gap and enhanced surface area. The improvements in optical and electrical switching characteristics are directly related to the large change in H concentration during loading-deloading cycles in Gd nanoparticle layers. It has also been observed that a uniformly deposited Pd nanoparticle over layer also plays a crucial role for improving hydrogen recovery time. © 2006 Materials Research Society.