OFF state alignment in PDLCs by polymerization of monomer additives

We have investigated the electro-optical properties of polymer dispersed li quid crystal films obtained by a two step phase separation process. Strong OFF state alignments of the liquid crystal were obtained by the application of an electric field during the photo-polymerization step. This memory eff ect is not present when the monomer molecules show a low solubility in liqu id crystal droplets. The influence of monomer concentration on the OFF stat e alignment of the liquid crystal has been also discussed.