Controlling nanoscale morphology in switchable PDLC gratings

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Abstract
Gratings formed by anisotropic phase separation of liquid crystals how tremendous promise for switchable optical elements. Formation of useful gratings is linked to the control of the resulting nano-scale morphologies. In an attempt to decrease scatter and improve the electro-optic properties of polymer-dispersed liquid crystal volume transmission gratings were have evaluated the result of altering the relative concentrations of the components in the pre-polymer mixture. Discussion is made concerning the expected effects on polymerization and phase separation and how these changes are reflected in the film morphologies and electro-optical properties. Initial results indicate that changes in the concentration of co-initiator, chain extender, and effective monomer functionality have a significant effect on the size and shape of the LC domains at constant LC loading.

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