Advanced Image-Integrated Smart Windows using Printed Electrochromic Polymer-Dispersed Liquid Crystal Droplets

초록

The first realization of a high-resolution, image-integrated smart window platform utilizing printed electrochromic polymer-dispersed liquid crystals (ECPDLCs) is reported, enabling stable and simultaneous control of both coloration and optical transmittance. The system exploits a redox-driven electrochromic response at low DC bias (approximate to 3 V) and tunable light scattering via refractive index modulation under an AC voltage (tens of Vrms at 1 kHz), achieving dual-mode optical functionality in a single device. By optimizing both the ECPDLC composition and the drop-on-demand (DoD) printing process, the droplet dead zones are significantly reduced and achieve precise spatial patterning with scalable fabrication. This work not only pioneers the integration of ECPDLCs into printed photonic devices but also offers a practical design framework for next-generation multifunctional smart systems. Our findings open up new avenues for adaptive architectural glazing, customizable commercial displays, and responsive optical technologies.

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