PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) switchable glass is one of the most innovative architectural materials available today. With just the flick of a switch, it can transform from a private opaque panel to a light-filled clear surface — offering a perfect blend of style, privacy, and modern technology.
But like any advanced material, PDLC glass has its own unique characteristics. One of the most important to understand is haze when the glass is in its powered “clear” (ON) state.
What is Haze?
Haze is a soft, slightly cloudy appearance that’s naturally present in all PDLC switchable glass. This isn’t a flaw or a defect — it’s simply a result of how the technology works. When powered on, the liquid crystals align to let light pass through, but a small amount of light scatters, creating a haze factor typically in the range of 3% to 5%.
What Affects the Appearance of Haze?
- Lighting Conditions
The clarity of PDLC glass changes with lighting. Bright backlighting or direct sunlight can make haze more noticeable, while softer or more evenly distributed lighting tends to reduce it. - Viewing Angle
PDLC glass is clearest when you’re looking straight at it. From an angle, the haze becomes more visible as light scatters within the film. - Surrounding Environment
The colors, brightness, and patterns behind the glass all influence how the haze is perceived.
Why It’s Worth It
While haze is part of the PDLC experience, it’s a small tradeoff for the benefits it brings: instant privacy, a sleek modern aesthetic, and the flexibility to control your space’s openness at any moment. Most customers quickly adapt to the haze factor — and many hardly notice it after installation.
Setting Expectations, Delivering Innovation
When you choose PDLC switchable glass, you’re investing in cutting-edge technology that redefines how glass can function in your home or business. By understanding and accepting the haze factor as a standard property of PDLC, you’ll enjoy all the advantages of a product that’s as versatile as it is visually striking.
Your space, your privacy — instantly.