Reverse-Mode Polymer-Stabilized Liquid Crystal Films with Enhanced Peel Strength and Electro-Optical Performance Based on Photoreactive Self-Assembly Alignment Layers and Patterned Polymer Walls

Abstract

Polymer-stabilized liquid crystal (PSLC) is a promising material toward the practical application of serving as energy-saving reverse-mode smart windows owing to its superior electro-optical (E–O) properties, simple and efficient processability, and compatibility to most practical circumstances. However, its feeble peel strength originated from low polymer content and poor adhesion between polymer networks and substrates inhibited its large-scale flexible film production. It is still a challenging task to derive good mechanical properties and superior E–O performance for PSLCs at the same time. In this study, a highly durable liquid crystal/polymer composite film showing enhanced peel strength and excellent E–O properties was attained by simultaneously building photoreactive self-assemble alignment layers through an efficient one-step method and the sculpture of a patterned polymer wall structure. This film has comprehensive ascendant E–O properties of lower driving voltages, faster response times, and higher contrast ratio, together with an over 30 times lift of the peel strength. The effectuation mechanisms of the alignment, E–O properties, peel-strength, microstructures, and cyclic durability of the films have been systematically studied. This novel liquid crystal/polymer composite film demonstrates advantages in every aspect of performance compared to traditional PSLC devices, which hoards promising applications in smart windows for cars and buildings.