Light modulator with structuring agent limiting diffusion of pigment particles

Abstract

Some embodiments are directed to a light modulator having a first substrate and a second substrate, the first and second substrates being arranged with inner sides opposite to each other, at least one electrode being applied to the inner side of the first substrate, an optical layer between the first and second substrates. The optical layer contains a fluid ink comprising pigment particles and a structuring agent, wherein the pigment particles are electrically charged or chargeable. Upon application of an electric potential, to generate an electric field in the optical layer providing electrophoretic or dielectrophoretic movement of the pigment particles causing modulation of optical properties of the light modulator. The structuring agent limits the diffusion of the pigment particles in the ink in at least part of the optical layer and at least when the optical layer is in a particular optical state.

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