Polymer-stabilized
liquid crystal (PSLC) is a promising
material
toward the practical application of serving as energy-saving reverse-mode
smart windows owing to its superior electro-optical (E–O) properties,
simple and efficient processability, and compatibility to most practical
circumstances. However, its feeble peel strength originated from low
polymer content and poor adhesion between polymer networks and substrates
inhibited its large-scale flexible film production. It is still a
challenging task to derive good mechanical properties and superior
E–O performance for PSLCs at the same time. In this study,
a highly durable liquid crystal/polymer composite film showing enhanced
peel strength and excellent E–O properties was attained by
simultaneously building photoreactive self-assemble alignment layers
through an efficient one-step method and the sculpture of a patterned
polymer wall structure. This film has comprehensive ascendant E–O
properties of lower driving voltages, faster response times, and higher
contrast ratio, together with an over 30 times lift of the peel strength.
The effectuation mechanisms of the alignment, E–O properties,
peel-strength, microstructures, and cyclic durability of the films
have been systematically studied. This novel liquid crystal/polymer
composite film demonstrates advantages in every aspect of performance
compared to traditional PSLC devices, which hoards promising applications
in smart windows for cars and buildings.