Polarizer-Free Gradient Dye-Doped Liquid Crystal Gels

Abstract

A multi-switch display using gradient dye-doped LC gels which is still polarizer-free, fast response (similar to 10ms in general), and high contrast (similar to 200:1 in general) has demonstrated. By controlling the spatial distribution of the density of polymer networks through fabrication process, gradient dye-doped LC gels can be a multi-switch. The gradient dye-doped LC gel is bright without applied voltage and is dark at a high voltage. It appears the colored pattern when LCs are partially reoriented due to the gradient density of polymer networks. The optical analysis of dye-doped LC gels is also discussed. The potential applications are flexible display and decorative displays.