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Abstract
A thermodynamically based model for phase separation in polymer-dispersed liquid crystals (PDLCs) is developed. Using Flory-Huggins theory and the lever rule, it quantitatively describes liquid crystal (LC) solubility in a polymer matrix as a function of temperature. From the spinodal compositions, the model yields upper bounds for the solubility limits of LC in polymer and of polymer in LC. The solubility limits are related to the Flory-Huggins interaction parameter, χ, and hence to solubility parameters, δ. This model may prove useful in selecting materials for which maximum segregation of liquid crystal into microdroplets is desired.