Switchable PDLC Film

FAQ

• Q1:

  What Is the Main Difference Between PNLC and PDLC Smart Film?

  

  A:

  The main difference is what happens when power is off. PDLC is frosted without power and clear when powered on. PNLC works in reverse: it is clear without power and frosted when powered on.

  
  

• Q2:

  How transparent is PDLC Smart Film when switched on?

  

  A:

  The transparency of PDLC Smart Film depends on the film structure, materials and manufacturing technology. High-quality optical-grade PDLC can provide high visible light transmission and low haze when switched on. InnoGlass offers High Definition PDLC Smart Film designed to provide enhanced transparency and visual clarity for applications where optical performance is important.

• Q3:

  What is the difference between self-adhesive and non-adhesive PDLC Smart Film?

  

  A:

  Self-adhesive PDLC Smart Film features a dry-application silicone adhesive layer and can be directly applied to existing glass surfaces without replacing the original glass. It is especially suitable for renovation projects, office partitions, meeting rooms, doors and windows. Non-adhesive PDLC film is mainly designed for lamination into glass during the glass manufacturing process. The choice depends on the application, glass structure and installation requirements.

• Q4:

  What is PDLC Smart Film and how does it work?

  

  A:

  PDLC Smart Film is a switchable privacy film that changes between transparent and opaque states when an electrical current is applied. When powered on, the liquid crystal molecules align to allow light to pass through, making the film transparent. When powered off, the molecules are randomly oriented, scattering light and making the film opaque for privacy.

• Q5:

  What voltage does PDLC Smart Film require?

  

  A:

  The working voltage of PDLC Smart Film depends on the specific film design and product structure. AC 60V is currently one of the most commonly used operating voltages, while AC 48V and AC 110V are also available in the market.

  Before installation, always confirm the required operating voltage with your smart film supplier and use the appropriate power supply or transformer.

  Using an incorrect voltage may affect the performance of the film. If the voltage is too low, the film may not switch properly or achieve the required transparency. If the voltage is too high, it may cause dielectric breakdown and permanently damage the film.

  
  

• Q6:

  How much power does PDLC Smart Film consume?

  

  A:

  PDLC Smart Film consumes electricity mainly when it is in the transparent state. Power consumption depends on the film size, operating voltage and product design,normally about 4W/sqm. Because the film is generally powered only when transparency is required, its overall energy consumption can be relatively low compared with continuously powered glass technologies.

• Q7:

  How Do I Choose Between DLC, PDLC, PNLC and EP (SPD)?

  

  A:

  Choose PDLC for white frosted privacy when power is off, PNLC for a clear off-state, DLC for dark opaque privacy when power is off, or EP (SPD) when adjustable visible light transmission is the main requirement.

• Q8:

  How Should I Choose Between PNLC and PDLC?

  

  A:

  Start with one question: What should the glass look like when power is off? Choose PNLC for a clear default or PDLC for a frosted default. Then confirm the film’s optical performance, electrical requirements and glass construction for your project.

  
  

• Q9:

  Where Is PNLC a Better Fit Than PDLC?

  

  A:

  PNLC suits glass that should normally remain transparent, with privacy activated only when needed—for example, a meeting room partition that is usually left open to view. PDLC suits spaces where frosted privacy is the preferred default.