FAQ

Table of Contents

General Questions

PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) film and glass are types of switchable smart glass technology that use a liquid crystal layer to control the transparency of the glass. When power is on it becomes transparent, when power is off it becomes opaque.

PDLC film and glass can also be designed to have multiple states, allowing for variable light control and privacy. For example, by adjusting the voltage applied to the film or glass, it can be set to partial transparency or different levels of opacity.

PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) film and glass work by using an electric current to change the alignment of liquid crystal droplets dispersed in a polymer matrix. The droplets are sandwiched between two layers of transparent ITO film materials.

When an electrical current is applied to the PDLC film or glass, the liquid crystal droplets align themselves to form a transparent state, allowing light to pass through. When the electrical current is turned off, the droplets randomly scatter and block light, creating an opaque or frosted appearance.

PDLC technology works by dispersing tiny liquid crystal droplets in a polymer matrix, which is then sandwiched between two layers of transparent ITO film materials, and form the regular PDLC film(We also call it non-adhesive PDLC film or PDLC film for lamination).

When the regular PDLC film combine with a self-adhesive layer, the self-adhesive PDLC film is made. Self-adhesive PDLC film can be stuck on glass surfaces directly, and is ideal for retrofitting existing glass partitions, windows, and doors.

PDLC glass, on the other hand, consists of two or more glass layers with a regular PDLC film layer sandwiched in between. The PDLC film is bonded to the glass layers using a lamination process.

PDLC glass provides privacy, light control, energy savings, and UV protection. It also offers a modern and elegant aesthetic. It can also be used for projection screens and advertising displays.

The cost of PDLC glass varies depending on the size, thickness, and complexity of the installation. It is generally more expensive than conventional glass.The EXW price of our PDLC glass ranges from $110-130 USD per square meter, and PDLC film range from $55-75USD per square meter, depending on the size and quantity of the order. For very large orders, you may be able to negotiate a bulk discount.

Normally needs 7-15 days for PDLC glass production and 3-7 days for PDLC film production. Depends on the required glass/film dimensions and quantities.

PDLC film and glass are safe when installed properly and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. PDLC glass is shatter-resistant and can be laminated for added safety.

PDLC film and glass are energy efficient because it can reduce energy consumption by blocking out heat and UV radiation from the sun, which can help reduce the need for air conditioning and heating systems

Technical Questions

Mainly we supply 3 type PDLC products, the regular PDLC film(non-adhesive), the self-adhesive PDLC film and the switchable PDLC glass.

The normal thickness of PDLC film is 0.3-0.5 millimeters. The thickness of PDLC glass is typically 10-12 millimeters. The thicker PDLC glass can be made as per customer request.

Power consumption: 5Watt per square meter
Operating voltage: 60-65V AC

PDLC glass can be controlled remotely using a switch, a smartphone app, or a home automation system, which can be integrated with other building systems such as lighting, HVAC, and security.

Our PDLC film/glass typically changes from transparent to opaque in 0.04 seconds and changes from opaque to transparent in 0.01 seconds.

We suggest the radius of curvature should be greater than 500 millimeters.

Application Questions

PDLC glass is used in windows, doors, partitions, skylights, and other architectural applications. It is also used in automotive and aircraft windows, as well as in electronic displays and projection screens.

PDLC glass is primarily used for interior applications. However, it can be used for exterior applications with additional protective layers to withstand harsh weather conditions.

PDLC glass can be manufactured in curved shapes, but the radius of curvature should be greater than 500 millimeters.

Yes, PDLC glass can be used in the bathroom, but need to use glass silicone sealant to seal the glass edge, to totally isolate it from water, as it can be damaged by water if water goes inside.

PDLC glass can provide some degree of sound insulation, but it is not as effective as specialized acoustic glass.

Yes, PDLC glass can be used as an alternative to blinds or curtains, providing both privacy and light control. However, it cannot totally blackout the light.

Installation and Maintenance

PDLC film with a self-adhesive layer can be stuck to a glass surface directly, similar to installing regular window film, detail instruction please see at: https://www.pdlcglass.com/how-to-install-self-adhesive-pdlc-film

And PDLC glass is installed like any other glass panel, using a frame or mounting system, just need to extra connect the electricity. It can be used in windows, doors, partitions, and other applications.

Yes, PDLC film and glass can be retrofit onto existing windows. PDLC film is a self-adhesive polymer film that can be applied directly to existing glass surfaces, making it easy to retrofit onto windows, doors, and partitions. This is a cost-effective way to upgrade the functionality and aesthetics of existing glass surfaces without the need for extensive renovations.

PDLC glass can also be retrofitted onto existing windows, but the process is more complex and requires professional installation. It involves the lamination of multiple glass layers, including a PDLC film layer, which is bonded to the glass layers using a lamination process. While it may be more expensive than PDLC film, retrofitting PDLC glass onto existing windows can provide a more permanent and durable solution that offers superior light control and privacy.

PDLC film and glass are relatively low maintenance but require regular cleaning with a soft, lint-free cloth and mild cleaning agents. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents and do not apply excessive force or pressure when cleaning or handling PDLC glass. If damage occurs, it is best to replace the film or glass to ensure proper functioning.

PDLC glass can last for up to 20 years with proper maintenance and care.

If PDLC film is damaged, it may be possible to repair it by replacing the damaged section with a new piece of film. However, if the damage is extensive, or if the film has been cut or torn, it may be necessary to replace the entire film.

If PDLC glass is damaged, the type of repair needed will depend on the severity of the damage. If the damage is minor, such as a scratch or a small crack, it may be possible to repair the glass using a specialized resin or filler. However, if the damage is more extensive, such as a large crack or a shattered pane, it may be necessary to replace the entire glass pane.

We provide a two-year warranty for our switchable PDLC glass and PDLC film products, with the exception of damage caused by improper operation.

Yes, Self-adhesive PDLC film and Switchable PDLC glass can be removed if needed.Self-adhesive PDLC film can be removed by gently peeling it off from the surface. However, if the film edge is glued or sealed into place, it may need to remove the glue or seal before peeling it off.

As for PDLC glass, if it is installed using a frame or mounting system, it can be removed by unscrewing or unclipping the frame and carefully lifting the glass out. However, if the glass is glued or sealed into place, it may require more effort to remove. In some cases, it may be necessary to use specialized tools or techniques to cut or break the sealant before attempting to remove the glass.

Comparison Questions

PDLC film/glass offers several advantages over traditional blinds or curtains, such as more precise control over light and privacy, easier maintenance, and a more modern and streamlined look. However PDLC film/glass cannot totally black out the light as some blinds or curtains do.

Compared to other types of smart glass, such as electrochromic glass, PDLC film/glass is generally more affordable, easier to install, and offers a wider range of colors and patterns.

PDLC film/glass offers similar levels of privacy as frosted glass, but with the added benefit of switchable transparency on-demand.

PDLC film/glass is generally more affordable and easier to install than electrochromic glass, but offers less precise control over light and heat transmission.

Electrochromic glass uses an electrical charge to change the tint color of the glass, allowing it to control heat and light transmission. It can be more expensive and difficult to install compared to PDLC film/glass, but offers more precise control over the amount of light and heat that passes through the glass. However, electrochromic glass typically has a limited range of colors and patterns compared to PDLC film/glass.

PDLC film/glass and holographic film/glass are two different technologies with different applications.

PDLC film/glass is a type of switchable smart glass that can change from transparent to opaque, providing control over light and privacy. PDLC film/glass is typically used in commercial and residential settings as a modern alternative to traditional curtains or blinds. PDLC film/glass also can be used as a projection screen by utilizing its ability to switch between opaque and transparent states. When the PDLC glass is in its opaque state, it functions as a white projection screen that reflects the light of a projector, allowing images or videos to be displayed.

Holographic film/glass, on the other hand, is a type of film or glass that contains a holographic pattern. The holographic pattern can be used for decorative purposes, such as creating an eye-catching visual effect or enhancing the aesthetic of a space. Holographic film/glass can also be used for security purposes, such as adding a layer of protection to a window or door.

Miscellaneous Questions

Yes, PDLC film/glass can be used as a projection screen. When the PDLC film/glass is switched to the opaque state, it becomes a high-quality projection screen that can display images and videos with excellent contrast and brightness. PDLC film/glass projection screens can be used in a variety of settings, such as home theaters, conference rooms, classrooms, and trade show exhibits.

One advantage of using PDLC film/glass as a projection screen is its switchable transparency. When not in use as a projection screen, the PDLC film/glass can be switched to the transparent state, allowing natural light to pass through and providing an unobstructed view. This can be especially beneficial in settings where privacy is not a concern, such as in a home theater or conference room.

Another advantage of using PDLC film/glass as a projection screen is its flexibility. PDLC film/glass can be retrofit onto existing windows or partitions, making it a cost-effective option for creating projection screens in spaces that were not originally designed for this purpose.Overall, the switchable transparency and high-quality projection capabilities of PDLC film/glass make it a versatile option for creating projection screens in various settings.

Yes, PDLC film/glass can be used for custom branding and advertising. PDLC film/glass can be printed with custom graphics, logos, or patterns, which can be switched on and off to create a dynamic advertising display or branding message.

PDLC film/glass can also be used as a projection screen for branding and advertising purposes. When the PDLC film/glass is switched to the opaque state, it can function as a high-quality projection screen for displaying custom graphics or videos. This makes PDLC film/glass a versatile option for businesses that want to promote their brand or advertise their products in a dynamic and engaging way. The projection capability, combined with the ability to switch between transparent and opaque states, makes PDLC film/glass a popular choice for creating interactive and eye-catching branding and advertising displays in various commercial settings.

Yes, PDLC film/glass can be used for interactive displays. When the PDLC film/glass is in the opaque state, it can be used as a projection screen for displaying interactive graphics, videos, or games.

PDLC film/glass can also be combined with touch screen technology to create interactive touch displays.

Yes, PDLC film/glass can be used for digital signage. When the PDLC film/glass is in the opaque state, it can function as a high-quality projection screen for displaying custom graphics, videos, or advertisements. The switchable transparency of PDLC film/glass can also be used to create unique visual effects that can enhance the impact of the digital signage.

PDLC film/glass provides a solution for interior design flexibility by allowing for the creation of versatile and adaptable spaces. Traditional interior design elements, such as walls, partitions, and curtains, can be limiting in terms of their fixed nature and lack of flexibility. PDLC film/glass, on the other hand, offers a range of switchable transparency levels, allowing for the creation of customizable and adaptable spaces.

With PDLC film/glass, designers can create spaces that can be transformed to suit different needs and purposes. For example, a conference room can be partitioned using PDLC film/glass, and the transparency can be adjusted depending on the size of the group, the type of meeting, and the desired level of privacy. Similarly, PDLC film/glass can be used to create private offices or workspaces that can be easily opened up to create a more collaborative environment.

PDLC film/glass can also be used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of a space. It can be printed with custom graphics or patterns, adding a decorative element to a room or creating a unique branding opportunity for businesses. Additionally, PDLC film/glass can be used as a projection screen to display images and videos with excellent contrast and brightness, which can add an extra dimension of visual interest to a space.

Overall, PDLC film/glass provides a versatile and flexible solution for interior design, allowing designers to create adaptable, functional, and visually appealing spaces that can be easily customized to suit different needs and purposes.

Contact us for a free quote.

If you have a project at hand that requires our product, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a free quote.

Request a Free Quote

Ready to kickstart your project? Contact us to get a free quote now!