Preliminary Results on UV and High Temperature Exposure Effects on the Electro-Optical Properties of Cellulose Derivatives Based PDLC Type Cells

Abstract

In this work we have studied, by light transmission, the effects of either UV or high temperature exposure on the electro-optical properties of cellulose derivatives based PDLC type cells prepared from hydroxypropylcellulose (HPC) and HPC cross-linked with 1,4 - diisocyanatobutane (BDI) (7,0% w/w). The time evolution of the electro-optical properties of different cells, some under UV exposure, and others under high temperature (65 °C), was recorded for times up to 7 days. Two sets of cells were analysed, one with electric field off during exposure, the other with electric field on. The results obtained show that no significant changes of the electro-optical properties of the cells occurred under the studied conditions, meaning that these systems are very stable and so good candidates for industrial applications.

Key Words:

• Solid films of Cellulose Derivatives
• PDLCs
• Electro—Optical properties