Nanodispersed liquid crystal polymer composites for optically tunable filters

Keith L. Lewis; Ian Robert Mason; Ian Sage; K. P. Lymer; Gilbert W. Smith

doi:10.1117/12.406475

13 November 2000 Nanodispersed liquid crystal polymer composites for optically tunable filters

Keith L. Lewis, Ian Robert Mason, Ian Sage, K. P. Lymer, Gilbert W. Smith

Proceedings Volume 4104, Organic Photorefractives, Photoreceptors, and Nanocomposites; (2000) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.406475
Event: International Symposium on Optical Science and Technology, 2000, San Diego, CA, United States

Abstract

Nano-phase polymer dispersed liquid crystal composites (n-PDLCs) have shown significant potential for use as in voltage tunable optical devices. In such composites, the dimensional scale of the liquid crystal droplets is such that optical scattering effects can be minimised in the visible and near infrared spectrum. The nanoscopic scale also allows the material to be described as a single homogeneous medium using effective medium approximations. The average refractive index of the material can be changed as electric field is applied and it is possible to effect spectral shifts in transmission bands when the material is incorporated into resonant filter structures. The paper summarises recent developments in such composite materials emphasizing the role of different co-polymer formulations for the matrix phase, and the useof different surfactant species to reduce the effects of pinning of the liquid crystal molecules at the droplet walls.

Citation Download Citation

Keith L. Lewis, Ian Robert Mason, Ian Sage, K. P. Lymer, and Gilbert W. Smith "Nanodispersed liquid crystal polymer composites for optically tunable filters", Proc. SPIE 4104, Organic Photorefractives, Photoreceptors, and Nanocomposites, (13 November 2000); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.406475

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