Chinese Journal of Liquid Crystals and Displays, Volume. 40, Issue 7, 957(2025)
Preparation and properties of high-contrast colorful polymer-dispersed liquid crystals based on epoxy-thiol
Polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) materials have been widely applied in smart windows, privacy glass, automotive sunroofs, and display technologies due to their unique electro-optical properties. However, conventional PDLC films, typically white or gray, only switch between transparent and scattering states, limiting their potential in personalized designs and high-value applications. To enrich PDLC coloration and enhance performance, this study incorporates three anthraquinone dyes (Disperse Orange, Solvent Green 28, and Solvent Blue 104) and investigates their concentration-dependent effects. Key findings demonstrate that Disperse Orange increases driving voltage while significantly improving overall performance. At 0.5% dye concentration (mass fraction) and 15 μm cell thickness, the PDLC achieves a contrast ratio (CR) of 203.53, on-state transmittance of 81%, and peel strength of 194.74 N/m. Solvent Green 28 and Solvent Blue 104 reduce driving voltages, with Solvent Green 28 decreasing saturation voltage (Vsat) from 28.67 V to 17.13 V, while Solvent Blue 104 lowers Vsat from 28.67 V to 17.14 V. However, excessive dye loading degrades mechanical properties, reducing peel strength from 150.45 N/m (pristine) to 124.47 N/m and 133.07 N/m, respectively. These results establish a dual-optimization strategy for PDLC systems, simultaneously enhancing electro-optical and mechanical performance through rational dye selection and concentration control.
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Shunpin MO, Chunhui ZENG, Hao BAI, Miao XU, Hongbo LU. Preparation and properties of high-contrast colorful polymer-dispersed liquid crystals based on epoxy-thiol[J]. Chinese Journal of Liquid Crystals and Displays, 2025, 40(7): 957
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Received: Apr. 21, 2025
Accepted: --
Published Online: Aug. 11, 2025
The Author Email: Hongbo LU (bozhilu@hfut.edu.cn)