A novel double-layer liquid crystal electro-optic switch and its infrared shielding properties investigation

ABSTRACT

In this study, a novel light switch was developed by integrating polymer dispersion liquid crystals (PDLC) and polymer-stabilised cholesteric liquid crystals (PSCLC), leveraging the infrared shielding properties of these two liquid crystal films. The optimal formulation for each layer of the liquid crystal structure was investigated. Subsequently, the effects of light intensity, high temperature, and humidity on the performance of the light switch were examined. This new light switch can be selectively driven layer by layer at room temperature, achieving three states: the off state, PDLC layer-driven state, and full-driven (on state). This functionality serves the purpose of electrogenerated temperature control. Samples under optimal conditions exhibited a 31% enhancement in infrared shielding compared to a single-layer PDLC film. Moreover, the IR shielding rate could be adjusted according to the voltage applied, realising an intelligent temperature-control effect. The results of this study suggest that such bilayer liquid crystal structures hold significant potential for application in electro-optical devices and smart curtain systems.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

KEYWORDS:

• Polymer dispersed liquid crystal
• cholesteric liquid crystal
• electro-optic switch
• infrared shielding

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The work was supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Shaanxi Provincial Department of Education [Program No. 23JP183 and No. 22JP100]; Science and technology plan project of Xi’an [No. 22GXFW0150]; Youth Innovation Team of Shaanxi Universities.