A recyclable, interchangeable optical switch with a PDLC-PVA-PSCLC structure and a low-voltage drive system.

Polymer dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC) and polymer stabilised cholesteric liquid crystals (PSCLC) are an indispensable class of electrically switchable materials, which have been widely applied in the fabrication of efficient and systematic smart windows. And doping nanoparticles in PDLC films can greatly improve their properties. In this study, PDLC films doped with zirconia nanoparticles were prepared by polymerisation-induced phase separation (PIPS) method, PSCLC films with nematic liquid crystals as the main part (reflecting wavelengths in the range of 400–600 nm) were prepared by UV curing method, and a novel optical switch was developed by combining these two liquid crystal films. The optimal bilayer sample was developed through a comparative analysis of properties among samples with varying formulations for each liquid crystal layer. This study represents a novel advancement in PSCLC and nanoparticle-doped PDLC bilayer structures, showcasing fully actuatable properties in the visible wavelength range. These structures exhibit excellent electro-optical properties and demonstrate stable, sustainable performance that can be regenerated. The findings underscore the potential of PDLC and PSCLC for applications in smart curtains and flexible materials, opening up new avenues for innovative technological applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]