Manufacture and evaluation of polymer dispensed liquid crystal test components

Components for protection against laser radiation have been manufactured using orthoconic antiferroelectric liquid crystals. LC droplets were dispersed in an index matched polymer matrix forming a transparent component. When a voltage is applied across the thin component the rodlike molecules are tilted, destroying the index matching. The lack of index matching results in scattering of incoming laser light. The scattering was measured as a function of angle, voltage and temperature. The dynamic properties of the components were analysed as well as the spectral distribution of the transmitted light in both open and closed states. The results are presented together with suggestions for improvements based on the results and a theoretical model presented.