A introduction of rubber keypad protective coatings:
Protective coatings for keypads play a crucial role in enhancing the overall value and performance of electronic products. These coatings contribute to superior tactile operation and offer various finishing options. By improving wear resistance, protective coatings extend the lifecycle of keypads. Additionally, they aid in safeguarding the product by minimizing dust accumulation and preventing alterations to the silicone surface feel after prolonged use.
Rubber Keypad Protective Coating Varieties:
When considering protective coatings for rubber keypads, it is crucial to align the choice with the specific applications and intended usage. Various options are available, including:
- Silicone Spray:
– Applied through spray application for wear resistance.
– Suitable for low to medium usage applications, offering improved wear resistance compared to screen-printed coatings.
– Clear matte protective spray coating provides wear protection with a smooth, silky finish, minimizing dirt attraction.
– Clear silicone protective spray coating with an antibacterial additive delivers wear protection alongside antibacterial resistance.
- Polyurethane:
– Protective clear coating covering the entire keypad.
– Offers wear resistance suitable for high-use applications, potentially increasing abrasion resistance of graphics.
- Parylene:
– Protective clear coating applied to the entire keypad.
– High wear resistance, making it ideal for high-use applications.
– Provides excellent resistance to various chemicals.
- Epoxy:
– Protective clear coating applied exclusively to keytops.
– 100% wear-resistant thick coating designed for high-use applications.
– Clear epoxy drip coatings on keytops provide a hard plastic feel or lens effect.
- Clear Coat:
– Economical protective coating choice.
– Typically applied in low-use applications, with resistance increasing with each coating.
Choosing the right protective coating ensures optimal performance and longevity based on the specific requirements of rubber keypads in diverse settings.
Health-Related Advantages Linked to Protective Coatings for Rubber Keypads:
In response to growing concerns about the transmission of illnesses and infections, industries, particularly healthcare facilities, are adopting measures to enhance the anti-bacterial properties of materials used in rubber keypad protective coatings. Anti-bacterial additives, often containing silver-based components, are integrated into the coating to act as effective biocides. When activated by moisture or hand contact, these additives release silver ions, exhibiting antimicrobial properties.
To manage the cost of incorporating anti-bacterial additives, companies opt for a formulation where the additive is blended with a compatible polymer. This viscous mixture is suitable for spray application, creating a durable anti-bacterial coating that also serves as protection for any applied printing. The thin micron layer of the coating, being part of a cross-linked polymer, forms a permanent bond with the bulk molding, ensuring resistance against washing off or abrasion from hand contact.
Notably, tests demonstrate that the anti-bacterial coating initiates a rapid reduction in bacteria, with significant decreases observed within an hour. The coating plays a crucial role in minimizing the risk of infection spread, cross-contamination, and biofilm accumulation.