Polymer dispersed liquid crystal is an electro-optic material containing liquid crystal droplets suspended in a solid polymer matrix. When unpowered, the liquid crystals are randomly oriented, scattering light and making the glass frosted or opaque. Applying an alternating current aligns the crystals, allowing light to pass through and turning the glass transparent. It is heavily used in architectural lighting control and privacy glazing.
Heard on the job
The client wants PDLC on the conference room walls so they can drop the opacity during presentations.
Insider tip
PDLC films require constant power to remain clear, meaning they fail to an opaque state during a power outage.
Also heard as
- smart glass
- switchable film