Smart glass · Smart film · PDLC

From clear to frosted in a fraction of a second.

PDLC glass and film turn any window into a switchable privacy screen. PDLCshop.com explains – independently and with sources – how it works, what it costs, who makes it and who installs it around the world.

To the knowledge base → Find an installer

Drawn house with PDLC windows A drawn house with seven windows. With the Power on button all windows switch at once between transparent and frosted. 230V →48V~
Glass: clear

In 30 seconds

How PDLC works

💧

1 · Droplets

Microscopic droplets of liquid crystal are dispersed in a thin polymer layer between two conductive films.

🌫️

2 · No power

The crystals point in random directions. Light is scattered every which way: the glass is frosted white, yet still lets daylight through.

⚡

3 · Power on

An alternating voltage aligns all crystals in the same direction. Light passes straight through: the glass is clear.

With reverse PDLC it is exactly the other way round – as in the demo above. Read the full explanation →

Key figures

PDLC in numbers

Typical values from manufacturers' datasheets. Exact figures differ per product. All specifications →

< 0.1 s
switching time from frosted to clear
± 5 W/m²
power consumption in the clear state
> 98%
UV blocking in both states
36–65 V
alternating voltage (AC) via a transformer
Applications

Where do you see PDLC?

🛁 Bathrooms

A glass shower wall or bathroom window that turns private at the push of a button. Laminated glass is the safe choice here.

🏢 Meeting rooms

An open, bright office – and a private meeting whenever you need one. One of the most common applications.

🏥 Healthcare

Treatment rooms and ICU boxes where staff keep visual contact, without fabric curtains that harbour bacteria.

🎬 Projection screen

In the frosted state the film works as a (rear) projection screen for shop windows and presentations.

🏠 Homes

Street-facing windows, sliding doors, walk-in closets and skylights – privacy without curtains.

🚗 Vehicles & transport

Panoramic roofs, motorhomes, yachts, trains and limousines with switchable partitions.

Considering PDLC?

Read the film-vs-glass guide and the checklist for your quote first.

To the buyer's guide →