Linear Light Modulation by a Polymer Dispersed Chiral Nematic

Abstract

Recently, a new class of light modulators, based on PDLC systems have been reported^1,2. Here, we present a Polymer Dispersed Chiral Nematic (PDCN) utilizing the linear electro-optic effect in chiral nematics with uniformly aligned helix under an electric field, applied normally to the helix axis³. A fairly good linear response has been detected in such PDCN films, containing a chiral nematic mixture 6415 L (Hoffmann La Roche), possessing a short pitch (about 0.3 μm), temperature independent in wide temperature interval (0°C - 50°C). Response time of about 100 μs has been measured.