Switchable Privacy Glass
Last Updated: July 30, 2024
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Switchable Privacy Glass
Switchable Privacy Glass
Share via E-mailSwitchable privacy glass, also known as smart glass or switchable glass, is a type of glass that can change its appearance between translucent frosted white and transparent with the application of an electrical current. This technology allows users to control the level of privacy and light transmission in a space with the flip of a switch. There are various technologies that achieve this effect, including Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) and Polymer Stabilized Cholesteric Texture (PSCT).
PDLC technology uses droplets of liquid crystals dispersed within a polymer matrix. When an electrical current is applied, the liquid crystals align, allowing light to pass through and making the glass transparent. When the current is turned off, the liquid crystals relax to a randomized nematic director within the droplets, refracting light and making the glass obscure the view.
PSCT technology uses cholesteric liquid crystals that are stabilized within a polymer structure. When an electrical current is applied, the helical structure of the cholesteric liquid crystals is unwound, allowing light to pass through and making the glass transparent. When the current is turned off, the helical structure is restored, refracting light and making the glass obscure the view. PSCT technology offers improved optical clarity compared to PDLC.
Private mode
Clear mode
Cardinal IG’s CLiC™ on-demand privacy glass is based on the advanced PSCT liquid crystal technology. It offers several advantages over other privacy glass options:
Film-Free Application: Film on film products add haze and are not as robust as direct glass on glass constructions. CLiC uses a direct-to-glass application, which means no films, less haze and higher durability.
Crystal Clear Views: When in clear mode, CLiC glass provides clear and transparent views from any position, without off-axis haze, fogginess, or distortion.
Privacy without Blocking Light: CLiC provides privacy by refracting light in random directions rather than blocking any light. This provides visual privacy without darkening the space.
Specialized Electronics: CLiC’s electronics deliver tuned power management for consistent performance over decades of use. Unlike PDLC-based products, CLiC doesn’t require daily hours in private mode to maintain warranty coverage.
In summary, switchable privacy glass offers the ability to control privacy and light transmission in a space with the flip of a switch. Cardinal IG’s CLiC privacy glass, based on advanced PSCT technology, provides a clear and transparent view, consistent performance, and easy integration with control systems.
