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Abstract
Using calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy we have investigated the formation energetics and kinetics as well as the phase behavior of an ultraviolet-cured polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) system. The purpose of this work was to determine those cure conditions which lead to liquid crystal microdroplet formation. We have found that a range of cure temperatures exists in which the degree of polymer cure is highest. In this range phase separation of liquid crystal from the polymer is maximized, and the best droplet microstructure occurs. Samples cured in the optimum temperature range also have the highest nematic-isotropic transition temperature. Results of calorimetric and electron microscopic studies are presented.
