Precise control over the morphology of nanostructures is critical for tailoring their physical and chemical properties. This study addresses the challenge of developing a simple, integrated method for synthesizing both 1D and 2D colloidal Cu nanostructures in a single system, achieving successful tuning of their localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) properties. A facile hydrothermal synthesis utilizing potassium iodide (KI) and hexadecylamine (HDA) is presented for controlling Cu nanostructure morphologies. The key to achieving 1D nanowires (NWs) and 2D nanoplates (NPs) depends on the controlled adsorption of HDA molecules and iodide (I-) ions on specific crystal facets. Depending on the morphologies, the resultant Cu nanostructures exhibit tunable LSPR peaks from 558 nm [nanoplates (NPs)] to 590 nm [nanowires (NWs)]. These results pave the way for the scalable and cost-effective production of plasmonic Cu nanostructures with tunable optical properties, holding promise for applications in sensing, catalysis, and photonic devices.

Direct use of sunlight through the glass windows is an efficient way to reduce the energy consumption related to the heating, cooling, and lighting. Introduction of near-infrared modulating properties through colloidal doped metal oxide nanocrystals into the classical electrochromic materials accelerates the development of next-generation electrochromic devices. There has been a steady enhancement in the performance of electrochromic devices, necessitating a review of the recent progress in next-generation electrochromic devices employing doped metal oxide nanocrystals. This review provides an overview of the current developments in next-generation electrochromic smart windows utilizing colloidal doped metal oxide nanocrystals, with a focus on the key factors for achieving these advanced windows. Colloidal doped metal oxide nanocrystals are a crucial component in realizing and bringing to market the next generation of electrochromic windows, though further research and development are still required in this regard.