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ABSTRACT
The bandwidth broadening of polymer-stabilised cholesteric liquid crystal (PSLC) has the potential to enhance its optical performance. In this study, a novel approach was presented for preparing broadband reflective films by using nanofibers loaded with zinc oxide nanoparticles as network supports in chiral nematic liquid crystals. The introduction of nanofiber played a pivotal role in replacing some monomers, resulting in cost-efficiency. Experiments were conducted to investigate the influence of different compositions and conditions on the broadband reflection performance. Specially, the effect of the concentration of nanoparticles loaded in nanofibers, direct-current (DC) voltage, monomer content, ultraviolet (UV) light intensity, polymerisation temperature, and UV irradiation time were examined. The microstructure of nanofiber and optical texture of PSLC were characterised using SEM and POM, respectively. With the above optimisations, the broadening from 246 nm to 412 nm was achieved and the films embodied brilliant UV shielding and infrared (IR) heat control effectiveness. This study provides a potential method for the preparation of smart liquid crystal devices in the future.
GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).