Does PDLC smart glass become opaque?-Global Smart Glass

Why does PDLC require a polymer?

The polymer allows the liquid crystals to be embedded into a film, which can then be sandwiched between panels of glass or plastic. The polymer has constant optical properties which do not vary across its structure, and hence is considered isotropic.
In contrast, the liquid crystal itself is anisotropic, since its optical characteristics are not constant across its structure, but rather can vary under application of an electric field.

FAQ >>>

Why does PDLC glass scatter light?

The liquid crystals change their refractive index in relation to the isotropically transparent polymer in which they are immersed, thereby creating multiple step boundaries throughout the PDLC.
It is this change in refractive index at each boundary which causes light to change course. Since the PDLC material contains millions of liquid crystals, each with a boundary facing a slightly different way, the light is scattered in many directions.
The net effect is to hide whatever is behind the PDLC smart glass.

FAQ >>>

How much light does PDLC glass transmit?

When not connected to a voltage, typically the transmittance can be as low as 2%. When connected to a voltage, it can be up to 80%, but this maximum value varies from manufacturer to manufacturer.

FAQ >>>

Does PDLC smart glass become opaque?

No, the correct term is translucent, since light still gets through, albeit scattered in many directions. The glass would be opaque only if the light was blocked or absorbed.

FAQ >>>

Can smart glass/film be used in bathroom?

Yes, smart glass and film can be used in moisture areas so long as the edges are sealed with a non-acid silicone gel. For bathrooms, we recommend using our smart glass product as the switchable PDLC layer is protected from water by the glass. All electrical components need to be sealed and protected from contact with moisture.

FAQ >>>

Does PDLC smart glass conduct electricity?

No, the internal PDLC layer is plastic and does not conduct electricity, since it is electrically insulated. Rather, it behaves more like a capacitor, where the applied signal alternates between positive and negative voltages at the plates of the capacitor, causing an alternating electric field throughout the PDLC dielectric, which is what aligns the liquid crystals with the frequency of the signal (normally 50 Hz or 60 Hz).

FAQ >>>