Electrochromic glass, with PDLC and SPD technologies, transforms glazing into intelligent tools to offer instant privacy to your interior and dynamically control sunlight and thermal comfort.
Electrochromic glass: PDLC vs SPD, which one to choose for your project
Glass has always played a key role in contemporary architecture, but today it is no longer just a transparent material: it is an intelligent element, capable of adapting to the context, light and people's needs. Electrically controlled technologies, often encapsulated under the term “electrochromic glass”, make it possible to transform glass surfaces into dynamic tools for regulating visibility, comfort and sustainability. Among the most advanced solutions, PDLC and SPD films represent two different but complementary approaches.
PDLC: instant privacy without sacrificing light
PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) technology is designed for environments where privacy is a priority, such as open-plan offices, meeting rooms, professional offices or modern residential environments.
With a simple electrical impulse, the glass changes from an opaque state - a satin effect, perfect for ensuring privacy - to a transparent state, allowing natural light to pass through without visual obstruction. It is an ideal solution for interior glazed walls or translucent partitions that need to transform quickly, without cumbersome mechanisms or physical shading. Innoptec® offers this technology in two versions: LPF, intended for glass lamination, and ADHEASY®, with self-adhesive application on existing glass. Likewise, a PNLC version is available with reverse operation: transparent in the OFF state, opaque in the ON state.
SPD: the dynamic control of sunlight
The SPD (Suspended Particle Devices) technology, commonly known as electric blackout glass, responds to a different need: to modulate the amount of light passing through the glass dynamically, adapting to environmental conditions and improving visual and thermal comfort.
When not powered, the SPD film appears blue in colour (available in two variants: Light Grade and Dark Grade). By applying an electrical voltage, the particles inside align and the glass becomes transparent. This technology is ideal for glass surfaces exposed directly to the sun, such as architectural façades, skylights, panoramic windows, automotive roofs or in the marine industry. In addition to light management, the SPD film filters up to 99.9 per cent of UV rays and helps reduce thermal load and improve overall energy efficiency.
PDLC vs SPD, which one to choose? A question of design
Choosing between PDLC and SPD depends on the objective of the intervention. If the focus is on dynamic indoor privacy, the PDLC film is the optimal choice: fast, elegant, essential. If, on the other hand, you want to control natural light and improve thermal comfort, especially in exterior glazing, SPD film offers advanced performance even in variable climatic conditions. Both solutions transform glass from a passive element into an active surface that interacts with the environment and contributes to people's well-being. Architects, planners and interior designers now have powerful tools to rethink the relationship between light, space and comfort in a technological and sustainable way.
Since 2001, a passion born of technology
Innoptec® is not just a manufacturer of switchable films: it is a technology laboratory that designs, tests and realises customised solutions for architecture and industry. Through an internal research and development process, each product is calibrated to ensure reliable performance, optical quality and easy integration into existing systems.
We are ready to support you in realising your most ambitious architectural visions, offering customised solutions that integrate advanced technology, superior functionality and refined aesthetics.
Contact our team to discover how Innoptec® intelligent films can elevate your projects to new levels of excellence.