We describe the synthesis of a novel electroactive photo-crosslinkable poly(aryl ether), containing tetraaniline pendants and allyl groups (EPPAE). The polymer structure and spectral properties are studied in detail. By introducing the electroactive tetraaniline pandents, EPPAE reveals reversible electrochemical activity, expected electrochromic behavior and good anticorrosive performance. After crosslinking the allyl groups with UV exposure, the resultant polymer (c-EPPAE) shows drastic change in electrochemical properties. The cEPPAE/ITO electrode exhibits declining electroactivity but excellent electrochemical stability, which are associated with densification of the electroactive layer. Furthermore, in the cor-rosive protection measurements, c-EPPAE reveals an outstanding protection efficiency (99.92%) for stainless steel substrates. A comprehensive study of electrochromic properties and corrosive protection of EPPAE before and after UV exposure will provide an insightful tool for the developing electrochromic smart windows, electrochromic displays, and anticorrosive paint. (C) 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.