After buying more glass to continue my testing of privacy windows using liquid crystal polymer filters, I focused on my Smart Tint samples. I’ve tested two shades: white and dark grey. Indeed, these films exist in various colors, including vivid green, yellow, or even red. For some unknown reasons at this time, I didn’t receive the black one I ordered, but the dark grey will be a good start. These films require 75V AC to turn clear and work as expected, no surprises.
The dark grey is a bit darker than the white one, in the ON and OFF position. Although expected, it also means that the color will impact the overall clarity. A no-go for viewing window treatment, but can be interesting, for example, if you want to use glass walls as an electronic whiteboard. Smart Tint films are thicker – and therefore more rigid – than InvisiShade one, which made the application more difficult. In particular, I had issues with removing the many air bubbles I’ve introduced during the installation – on a small surface. Assuming one would use professional services to apply such filters, my issues should not cast shade on Smart Tint products. Simply know your limits! Because the Smart Tint sheets were bigger than my glass sheets, I had to cut them. You can do this very quickly using scissors or a cutter. The only precaution consists of avoiding compromising the electrical contacts where power is delivered. Let’s see if the extra thickness is an advantage from a durability point of view…
