How Does PDLC Smart Film Work? The Technology Explained
Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal - one sheet, two states, under 10 milliseconds.
See the film switch
An SGV install switching between transparent and frosted - the film this article talks about.
- Under 0.1 s switching - clear to frosted the instant power changes
- ~5 W per m² - less power than a light bulb, only while clear
- Factory-cut to size - busbar finished and tested, ready to wire
The five-layer sandwich
PDLC film is two PET outer layers, two ITO conductive coatings, and between them the PDLC core: liquid crystal droplets dispersed in a polymer matrix. The ITO layers carry the electric field; the liquid crystals do the optical work.
Power off: scattered light
With no voltage, the liquid crystal molecules align randomly. Light entering the film is scattered in every direction - the film looks milky white frosted (haze 93-95%) and blocks direct view completely.
Power on: aligned and clear
Apply AC 60V/48V and the electric field aligns the molecules. Light passes through nearly undisturbed - up to 92% transmittance in our Ultra Clear grade, with a 160° viewing angle. Switching takes under 10 ms - faster than a light bulb.
What it does besides switching
- Blocks ≥99% UV - interiors stop fading
- Blocks ≥98% infrared - real heat reduction
- Holds glass fragments on impact (safety)
- Cuts noise transmission by 20%+ vs ordinary glass
- Doubles as a rear-projection screen in the opaque state
The reverse variant
PNLC film inverts the logic: transparent with no power, frosted when powered. Read about it on the PNLC film page.
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