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What is PDLC film? A plain-language explanation
Published on · Privé Glas
PDLC film is the technology behind smart film: a thin film that switches glass from clear to frosted with one tap. It sounds technical, but the principle is simple. In this article we explain it in plain language.
What does PDLC stand for?
PDLC stands for Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal: liquid crystals dispersed in a polymer layer. That layer sits between two thin, transparent conductive layers. Together they form a film that is applied to glass.
In everyday language we call it smart film, switchable film or privacy film. It is always the same principle.
How does it work, without jargon?
Imagine the liquid crystals as tiny particles each pointing in its own direction. Without power they lie every which way. Light passing through the film hits all those particles and is scattered in every direction. The result: the film is frosted, with a milky-glass effect. Light comes in, but you cannot see clearly through it.
Switch the power on and the crystals all line up in the same direction. Light can then pass straight through. The film turns clear, with 92% transparency.
In short: frosted without power, clear with power.
What do you need?
A working smart film system consists of a few parts:
- The film itself, cut to the exact size of your pane.
- Busbars: conductive strips at the edge of the film that spread the current across the surface.
- Connection cables to the transformer.
- A Wi-Fi transformer, plugged into a power socket, for control via the app.
How do you control PDLC film?
You switch the film via the app or with the remote control. The Wi-Fi transformer also works with Google Home and Alexa, so you can switch the glass with your voice or include it in your smart-home routines.
Read more on the remote-controlled glass page.
What PDLC film does and does not do
PDLC film gives privacy on demand without taking away daylight. In the frosted state you see shapes or light, but no sharp image. So it is a milky-glass effect, not a blackout. If you want a room truly dark, combine the film with a blackout curtain.
The film blocks up to 99% of UV radiation. Because it goes on existing glass, you do not need to replace windows or glass walls.
Where is PDLC film used?
Typical applications are glass meeting rooms and offices, consulting rooms in practices, glass interior doors and walls in homes, and street-facing windows. You can see examples in our projects and on the applications page. Also read our article on smart film for meeting rooms.
What does PDLC film cost?
At Privé Glas, smart film costs €179 per m² excl. VAT, plus a one-time €149.99 excl. VAT for the transformer with Wi-Fi app. The film is made to measure and tested before delivery, and you get a 4-year warranty.
Worked examples are in what does smart film cost per m². If you are torn between film and new glass, see smart film or smart glass.