Preparation, characterization and properties of PVC/V2O5 hybrid organic–inorganic material

In this work, we describe the synthesis of a new organic–inorganic hybrid material, which is composed by polyvinylchloride (PVC) and vanadium pentoxide xerogel. The presence of the organic polymer resulted in a stabilization of the electrochemical response of vanadium pentoxide xerogel in aqueous medium as well as a reduction of its solubility. In addition, the hybrid material has electrochromic properties and is mechanically flexible in contrast to pure V2O5 xerogel film, which is fragile and breakable.