Privacy Glass

Note: As of 1999, Viracon is no longer involved in the manufacturing/distributing of Privacy Glass.

Laminated glass. 3M Privacy film is laminated by Viracon between two panes of glass, like the security glass that forms car windshields.




 

 

 

 

Film construction. 3M's privacy film is made of two layers of polyester coated on one side with a transparent conductor of electricity. A polymer layer between the two polyester layers contains liquid crystals, the same material used in digital displays.



 

 

 

Visibility. An electrical field applied to the film causes the crystals to orient themselves all in one direction, like particles in a magnetic field. The glass then clears.

 

 

Opacity. When the power is turned off, the crystals are randomly aligned, so the glass appears white, or frosted.



 

 

 

Electrical circuits. Normal household current and wiring powers the window. Standard light switch controls the window's transparency, and a 3M power conditioner protects against damaging power surges. Power consumption is below one watt per square foot; power is consumed only when the glass is on (clear).

 

Glass Types. Privacy glass can be used in single-pane or insulating windows.





 

 

 

Based on the 3M Innovation privacy glass sheet "How Does it Work?"