--- title: "How Switchable Glass Works | PDLC Technology Explained | Glass Technique Ltd" canonical_url: "https://gt.glass/technology/switchable-glass" last_updated: "2026-10-04T02:32:35.017Z" meta: author: "Glass Technique Ltd" description: "Technical deep-dive into PDLC switchable glass technology. How polymer dispersed liquid crystal glass works, specifications, comparisons, and applications. Expert guide by Glass Technique Ltd." keywords: "PDLC glass, how switchable glass works, smart glass technology, PDLC technology explained" "og:description": "Technical deep-dive into PDLC switchable glass technology. How polymer dispersed liquid crystal glass works, specifications, comparisons, and applications. Expert guide by Glass Technique Ltd." "og:title": "How Switchable Glass Works | PDLC Technology Explained | Glass Technique Ltd" --- Search products Technology Deep Dive # PDLC Switchable Glass Technology The science behind instant privacy — how PDLC technology delivers transparent-to-opaque glass at the flick of a switch. ## What is PDLC Glass? PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) glass is a laminated glass product containing a thin film of liquid crystal molecules dispersed within a polymer matrix, sandwiched between two layers of glass. When an electrical current is applied, the liquid crystal molecules align, allowing light to pass through — making the glass transparent. When the current is removed, the molecules scatter randomly, diffusing light and making the glass opaque. This transition happens in under 0.1 seconds, with no moving parts, no mechanical components, and no maintenance-heavy mechanisms. The result is glass that can switch between transparent and opaque states electronically — providing instant privacy on demand. ## How PDLC Switching Works - OFF state (no power): Liquid crystal molecules are randomly oriented, scattering light. Glass appears opaque/frosted. - ON state (power applied): Electric field aligns liquid crystal molecules. Light passes through. Glass becomes transparent. - Dimming control: Partial voltage allows intermediate transparency levels between fully clear and fully opaque. - Switching speed: < 0.1 seconds for full transition. - Power consumption: < 5W/m² — comparable to a small LED bulb. ## PDLC vs Other Switchable Technologies PDLC is one of several switchable glass technologies. Here's how it compares: | **Feature** | **PDLC** | **SPD** | **Electrochromic** | | --- | --- | --- | --- | | Switching speed | < 0.1s | 1-3s | 30-120s | | Privacy level | Full opaque | Full opaque | Tinted (not opaque) | | Power required | While ON | While ON | Pulse only | | Typical cost | £400-600/m² | £800-1200/m² | £1000+/m² | | Best for | Partitions, bathrooms | Large facades | Solar control facades | | GT product | Technolite | — | — | ## Technolite Product Range Glass Technique Ltd supplies the Technolite range of PDLC switchable glass, available in multiple configurations: - Technolite SA — Self-adhesive film for retrofit applications - Technolite Prime — Standard switchable glass for new installations - Technolite Plus — High transparency, low haze (1.8% haze, 91% transparency) - Technolite H — High heat and moisture tolerance for challenging environments - Technolite G — Grey tint switchable glass - Technolite A — Automotive-grade switchable glass - Technolite R — Reversed switchable with super low haze ## Technical Specifications | **Specification** | **Value** | | --- | --- | | Technology | PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) | | Switching speed | < 0.1 seconds | | Transparency (clear state) | Up to 91% | | Haze (clear state) | As low as 1.8% | | Power requirement | 48V AC / 60Hz | | Power consumption | < 5W/m² | | Operating temperature | -20°C to +60°C | | Max panel size | Up to 2300mm × 6000mm | | Glass construction | Laminated toughened safety glass | | UV protection | 99% UV blocked | | Lifespan | 50,000+ switching cycles | ## Control Systems Technolite switchable glass can be controlled through multiple interfaces: - Wall switch — simple on/off toggle - Remote control — wireless RF remote for multiple zones - Touch panel — premium wall-mounted touch controls - Building Management Systems — KNX, Crestron, Control4 integration - Smart home — compatible with home automation platforms - App control — WiFi-enabled control via smartphone app ## Installation Considerations PDLC switchable glass requires careful planning for electrical supply, transformer placement, and control wiring. Key considerations include: Electrical supply: 48V AC power via a dedicated transformer. The transformer should be sited in an accessible location (typically within the ceiling void or a nearby utility cupboard). Wiring: Low-voltage wiring connects the transformer to each glass panel. Wiring must be routed during first fix and concealed within the frame or wall. Frame compatibility: Switchable glass panels are supplied as laminated glass units that fit into standard glazing frames. Timber, aluminium, and steel frames are all compatible. Acoustic performance: When combined with acoustic PVB interlayers, switchable glass can achieve sound reduction of Rw 42-50 dB. ## Related Products [View Product](https://gt.glass/product/switchable-glass) ## Related Applications [Offices](https://gt.glass/applications/offices) [ Healthcare](https://gt.glass/applications/healthcare) [ Residential](https://gt.glass/applications/residential) [ Hospitality](https://gt.glass/applications/hospitality) Frequently Asked Questions ## Ready to Specify Switchable Glass? Our technical team provides expert guidance from specification through to installation. Talk to us about your project. [+44 20 3838 0300](tel:+442038380300) [ Get a Quote ](https://gt.glass/contact?product=switchable-glass)