A Multi-Functional Molecule for Highly Durable, Bending-Resistant, Low-Voltage Driving PSLC Films toward Smart...

Polymer-stabilized liquid crystals (PSLCs) are widely used in smart windows, light modulators, and dimmed glass. However, their low mechanical strength, unsatisfactory electro-optical properties, and poor durability limit their large-scale application. In this study, a PSLC film with outstanding performance is prepared by incorporating a multifunctional molecule into a fine-sculptured liquid crystal/polymer composite. The multifunctional molecule is designed to form a vertically oriented layer with a silane coupling agent through a two-step self-assembly process and improve the mechanical strength of PSLCs by connecting the polymer networks through covalent bonds. In addition, it endowed the film with good thermal stability through the reversible change from hydrogen bonds at low temperatures to C═N bonds at high temperatures. A PSLC film with ultralow saturation voltage (V_sat < 25 V), wide operating temperature and viewing angle performance, high mechanical strength (60-100% improvement), and high stability (15 000 cycles) is prepared through the self-assembly of the multifunctional molecule followed by photomask-assisted photopolymerization. Finally, a bending-resistant, flexible PSLC film with passive radiative cooling capacity is tested and achieved excellent temperature management. This composite film demonstrated superior performance in every aspect, promoting the application of PSLCs in smart windows for cars and buildings.