Abstract: An electrochromic device having an electrochromic layer and an electrolyte sandwiched between electrodes. A charge compensator ion permeable layer is interposed between the electrochromic layer and the electrolyte. The latter-mentioned interposing layer serves as a protective overcoat for the electrochromic layer and minimizes the structural decay of the cell which might otherwise occur. SUFIELD OF THE INVENTIONThe present invention relates to electrochromic devices and, more particularly, to such a device having a protective overcoat layer interposed between an electrochromic layer and an electrolyte.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ARTThe prior art has recognized the usefulness of electrochromic devices wherein the electromagnetic absorption characteristics may be reversibly altered by a controlled electric field. The device is particularly useful as a display device or in light valve-type applications.U.S. Pat. No.

Abstract: A photogalvanic cell having an electrode and a counterelectrode positioned in spaced registry. A charge storage layer containing a transition metal oxide covers the electrode while a semi-solid electrolyte covers the counterelectrode. An overcoat layer containing tin oxide is disposed in intervening contact between the charge storage layer and the semi-solid electrolyte. The cell converts light energy to electrical energy and also stores electrical charge for use after the cell is no longer exposed to light.

Abstract: A charge storing photogalvanic cell including spaced electrode and counterelectrode "sandwiching" a charge storage layer and a compensating layer. Various dopants to the charge storage layer have been determined to vary cell performance as follows: increasing photosensitivity and charge retention; increasing electrical response; increasing device life; decreasing charge retention; changing optical absorption of charge storage layer; or localizing destruction of charge storage capability.