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Short demo

This "smart glass" can change State

Start with the video, then use the science notes and recommended parts below to follow the idea behind the build.

MaterialsShorts

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How it works

What this project is testing.

Smart glass looks like magic because the change happens inside the material, not on the surface. The film contains tiny liquid crystal regions suspended in polymer.

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With power off, the liquid crystals point in random directions and scatter light, so the pane looks cloudy. With power on, the electric field lines them up and light passes through more cleanly.

E \approx \frac{V}{d}

The electric field across the film depends on the applied voltage and film thickness.

Recommended parts

Products used in this project.

Affiliate links may earn Keystone Science a commission. Match ratings, values, sizes, polarity, and safety requirements to your own build before buying.

(8" x 12") | Black Window Privacy Film | PDLC Switchable, Window Film | Smart Film for Home & Office Windows | Adhesive Privacy Film | Heat Insulation UV Blocking–Clear to Black Opaque

smart glass / switchable glass filmmaterials

PDLC Switchable Smart Window Privacy Film, 8 x 12 inches, Black

$25.004.6(13)

Verify voltage/control requirements and size before publishing; smart-film products have sparse Amazon review evidence. Review requirements and safety guidance before buying.

Ackers High Borosilicate Glass Measuring Cup Set with Pour Spout,60ml(2OZ),120ml(4OZ), 250ml(8OZ) Glass Measuring Beaker for Kitchen or Restaurant, Easy to Read

glassfabrication

Ackers High Borosilicate Glass Measuring Beaker Set with Pour Spout

4.5(3,500)

Amazon Basics 8-Pack 9V Long-Lasting Alkaline Batteries for Smoke Detector, Electronics & Audio, Reliable, 5-Year Shelf Life

batterypower

Amazon Basics 8-Pack 9V Long-Lasting Alkaline Batteries

$12.694.7(242K)

General electronics battery pick; choose AA/AAA variants when the circuit calls for them.

12V 2A Power Supply, AC 120V to DC12V 5.5x2.1mm Jack Converter, 12 Volt LED Driver 24W Adapter Transformer for Strip Lights, Surveillance Cameras, External HDD, Monitor, CCTV (Pack of 1)

wall adapter / DC adapterpower

12V 2A Power Supply, AC 120V to DC12V 5.5x2.1mm Jack Converter, 12 Volt LED Driver 24W Adapter Transformer

$8.994.5(6,601)

General 12V wall adapter pick; match voltage/current, polarity, and connector to the circuit.

EDGELEC 120pcs Breadboard Jumper Wires 20cm Wire Length Optional Dupont Cable Assorted Kit Male to Female Multicolored Ribbon Cables

jumper wires / hookup wirewiring

120pcs Breadboard Jumper Wires, 20cm Dupont Cable Assorted Kit, Male to Female

$6.984.7(4,500)

Project files

Prints, kits, and downloads.

Diagrams, printable files, kits, or companion downloads will appear here when they are ready to use.

Coming soon

Contact

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