A liquid crystal is a hybrid between (i) a liquid which flows like a fluid and (ii) a crystal which is normally found as a solid, exhibiting short- or long-range symmetry.
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.
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.
Smart glass/film is operated using 48-65VAC power supply. Transformer will be needed for 110-230V power source.
A flexible polymer-based film (typically PDLC: Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) with an adhesive layer on one side. It is applied directly to existing glass surfaces like a sticker. A laminated glass unit where PDLC film is permanently sandwiched between two layers of glass using EVA or PVB interlayers under high pressure/temperature. This creates a solid, structural glazing product. • Optical Clarity: • Energy Efficiency: • Durability: • Safety: • Film: Ideal for retrofitting offices, shower doors, storefronts, or rental properties. • Glass: Suited for high-end architectural projects (facades, security rooms, partitions), automotive sunroofs, and aviation. Choose self-adhesive smart film for cost-effective, non-invasive upgrades to existing glass. Opt for smart glass in new builds or high-traffic areas demanding durability and safety. Both deliver dynamic privacy/energy savings but cater to different project scales and budgets.1. What is self-adhesive smart film and smart glass
Self-Adhesive Smart Film:
Smart Glass:
2. Installation & Application
Feature
Self-Adhesive Smart Film
Smart Glass
Installation
Peel-and-stick onto existing glass; DIY-friendly.
Requires professional glazing; replaces entire glass unit.
Best For
Retrofitting existing windows/glass partitions.
New constructions or full renovations.
Complexity
Some skill is needed:
1. How to install the film;
2. How to deal with the edge sealant;
3. How to hide the wire.
Install the glass as the normal glass except for considering how to hide the wire.
How to make smart glass?
3. Functionality & Performance
Both switch between transparent (ON) and opaque (OFF) via electricity. Smart Glass often has higher clarity due to glass encapsulation.
Identical function: Blocks ~99% UV rays and reduces heat gain.
Power consumption is low (~5W/m²/hour).
Smart Glass is more robust (scratch resistant, impact-resistant, safety-glass properties, longer life time). Film is vulnerable to peeling/scratches comparing with smart glass.
Smart glass remains secure after breaking. Film lacks structural security but can prevent glass from shattering.
4. Applications
5. Pros vs. Cons Summary
Type
✅ Pros
❌ Cons
Self-Adhesive Film
Affordable, easy install, UV/heat blocking, retrofit-friendly
Less durable, no structural safety, prone to air bubbles, Lower clarity than smart glass.
Smart Glass
Premium finish, enhanced safety/durability, seamless integration, higher clarity and performance than film.
High cost, inflexible for existing spaces, complex replacement.
Conclusion
Transportation
Architectural (residential and commercial)
Interior design
Retail advertising
Healthcare (i.e. hospitals and clinics, since the PDLC smart glass can replace unhygienic curtains and blinds which often carry microbes and germs, and this also improves air quality)
Banking, thanks to the privacy afforded to ATMs and as internal partitions
Hospitality, especially bathrooms, since more natural light can penetrate interior spaces lacking windows to the outside world.
Smart glass/film is a switchable light control glass that turns a transparent glass to opaque instantaneously and vice versa.
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