Memory Effects of Light Transmission Properties in Polymer-Dispersed-Liquid-Crystal (PDLC) Films

Abstract

A new type of memory effect is observed in polymer-dispersed-liquid-crystal (PDLC) film with UV-curable polymer. The transmittance of the memory state is preserved for a long time after an applied voltage is removed. In this state, the resistivity of the film decreases and the dielectric constant increases comparing to those of the initial off state. The memory state can be erased and changed to the scattering off state by heating the film to the clearing temperature of the liquid crystal.