Polymer network liquid crystals improved in thermal durability for outdoor environment

Abstract

Smart windows are often installed in the vicinity of outdoors and could be exposed to severe thermal environments, depending on climate, weather, and location. We have worked on polymer network liquid crystals (PNLC) for the application to thermoresponsive switchable windows and have improved the durability at low- and high-temperature environment. The PNLCs were improved by using liquid crystal (LC) mixtures, not to leave white spots therein after experiencing cold condition. They were improved by adjusting compositional ratios of LCs to reactive mesogens, to increase the temperature transforming haze to transparence back during the rise in temperature.