LIQUID CRYSTAL THERMOMETERS

Thermochromic Liquid Crystals (LCs) are highly temperature sensitive, changing through many colours and their most common use is in self-adhesive Liquid Crystal Thermometer Labels. They have been used in a huge number of common applications including:-

  • Forehead Thermometers
  • Fridge Thermometers
  • Nursery Thermometers
  • Aquarium Thermometers
  • Gas Level Indicators
  • Overheat Indicators

Starting as black below their temperature range they go through the colours of a rainbow as temperature is increased finally changing back to black again when above their temperature range. They are reversible and can be used over and over again.

The technology is similar to that used in TV and Watch displays however instead of reacting to electrical impulses they respond to fluctuations in temperature. They can be formulated to react to temperatures between -30°C (-22°F) and 120°C (248°F) and react to changes in temperature as small as 0.1°C (0.2°F). Accurate to up to +/- 1°C if stored and used correctly they will remain functional for many years.

Each temperature on our Liquid Crystal thermometer labels  is individually formulated and laid down to form an independently functioning temperature indicator. When placed alongside other formulations a graduated scale can be created allowing the user to identify current temperature. As each segment will pass through the rainbow of colours the formulations are generally set so that the green window indicates the temperature and in the case of more than one window showing green it is the highest one that should be read.

Please note that the colours shown in this picture are only an indication and may vary.

SPECIFICATIONS

Layer – Material – Thickness
Protective Film – Polyester or Polycarbonate – 75-175µ
Graphics – Printing Ink – 10-20µ
Temperature Window – Liquid Crystal Ink – 10-50µ
Black Backing – Printing Ink – 10-20µ
Adhesive & Carrier – Modified Acrylic with polyester carrier – 150-180µ
Release Liner – N/A – 75-120µ

The above values are only guidelines and should not be relied upon as they can vary depending on the product. Below is a diagram of a typical construction of a Liquid Crystal Thermometer Labels:-

Shelf Life:12 months from invoice date when stored in a cool dark environment between 18 and 22°C at 50% relative humidity

CUSTOM PRODUCTS

Due to the nature of construction we can produce these in any design or shape and a full custom manufacturing service is available meet customers’ precise requirements. Please contact us for details.