THERMOCHROMIC
Thermochromic (TC) products change color in response to temperature fluctuations. There are two types of TC’s, liquid crystals and leuco dyes. The most famous TC application ever, the "mood" ring of the 1970’s, was a liquid crystal. Today, liquid crystals are used in many products, including aquarium thermometers, stress testers, forehead thermometers, and other applications. While liquid crystal TC’s are extremely capable materials, they are very difficult to work with and require highly specialized manufacturing techniques. The other type of TC is called a leuco dye and is commonly used in security printing, novelty applications such as temperature sensitive plastics and mugs, product labels, advertising specialties, and textiles.
Liquid Crystal: Liquid crystals
are generally used for higher precision applications since the temperature response point can be tightly engineered. Common |
Leuco Dye: Leuco dyes are less precise and commonly used for novelty applications. Their response temperatures cannot be controlled as well as liquid crystals. Common applications include coffee mugs, plastics, toys, and battery testers. |
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