Simultaneous effects of external stimuli on preparation and performance parameters of normally transparent reverse mode polymer-dispersed liquid crystals-a review

With the maturation of display devices using liquid crystal (LC) materials, likely, in normally transparent reverse mode polymer-dispersed liquid crystals (PDLCs) devices' performance and development have been assessed in the present review. The fabrication techniques and various normally transparent reverse mode devices such as polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), polymer network liquid crystal, polymer-stabilized liquid crystal, anisotropic LC gels and nematic emulsions are discussed. Further, the simultaneous effects of external stimuli such as external fields, optical effects, temperature and composition of constituents of PDLC mixture are reported for analysing the technological advancement of normally transparent reverse mode LC devices. The performance parameters discussed in this review are texture formation, transmission, response time, contrast ratio, viewing angle, threshold and operating voltages. The interdependency of these parameters on overall performance of the device is also discussed and analysed. Thus, new areas of application in the realms of 2D/3D and multi-plane display devices, normally transparent shutters/smart windows, augmented/virtual reality devices are interesting technological advancements in basic and applied research using these novel anisotropic LC and polymeric materials.

Automated summary

This review evaluates the performance and development of normally transparent reverse mode PDLC devices in the context of the maturation of liquid crystal display devices. The review discusses fabrication techniques and various types of devices, as well as the effects of external stimuli on device performance and the interdependency of performance parameters. Interesting technological advancements in various applications, such as 2D/3D and multi-plane display devices, are highlighted.