What Form Factors are PDLC glass available in?-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 >>>

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 >>>

Why is PDLC considered to be smart?

The smartness of PDLCs is a result of its ability to change its transparency (technically called the transmittance) when an electrical stimulus is applied to it. This is normally by way of an alternating voltage, which exerts an alternating electric field across the PDLC material.
Nevertheless, the PDLC is only as smart as the control system which stimulates the change, which can be driven by a push button switch, a light sensor, or a building automation system.

FAQ >>>

How does smart glass/film works?

Smart glass works via electrical signal through activation of switches, sensors etc. Liquid crystal molecules turn to allow light to pass through and glass becomes transparent. It is opaque when not activated.

FAQ >>>

What is the maximum size of smart glass?

The maximum size of smart glass: 2000mm*6000mm (6.5ft*19.5ft).

FAQ >>>

Are the only states of PDLC just ON and OFF?

No, the transmittance (level of transparency) of the PDLC can be varied from 0% in the OFF state up to any value you want until you reach the maximum transmittance (normally 70% or 80%). This is done by simply altering the voltage from 0 VAC up to 70VAC, which is typically the maximum recommended voltage. This can be done electrically with a variable isolating transformer, or electronically with a switched-mode smart glass dimmer.

FAQ >>>