Effect of graft copolymer matrix prepared by reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer and atom transfer radical polymerization on the electro-optical properties of polymer-dispersed liquid crystals

A type of graft macroinitiator, synthesized by reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) and atom transfer radical polymerization, was employed to prepare polymer-dispersed liquid crystals (PDLCs) with graft copolymer matrix; meanwhile, a linear macroinitiator was also synthesized via RAFT polymerization. The effect of linear and graft macroinitiators on the electro-optical (EO) properties of the PDLCs was investigated. The results showed that the graft macroinitiator could make a large difference to the EO properties of the PDLCs. The memory effect was reduced remarkably, but the driving voltage increased and transmittance decreased. A possible mechanism is presented. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry