Provided are multilayer laminates having one or more layers comprising
twisted nematic liquid crystals and one or more layers of a polymeric
sheet comprising a polymer with a modulus between 20,000 psi (138 MPa)
and 100,000 psi (690 MPa). The twisted nematic liquid crystal layers
reflect infrared radiation. Thus, the multilayer laminates are useful to
reduce the transmission of infrared energy. For example, in some
embodiments the multilayer laminates are useful as windows to reduce
energy consumption necessary to cool the interior of a structure such as
an automobile or building. Preferably, the multilayer laminates retain
the beneficial properties of safety glass. The multilayer laminates may
include additional layers such as infrared absorbing layers, half wave
plates, and the like, to minimize the transmission of infrared energy.
The multilayer laminates may also include further additional layers such
as polymeric films, polymeric sheets, rigid sheets, and the like.