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Ion-Mask Coating Could Make Waterproofing Electronics Easy

Posted by ScuttleMonkey on from the spray-on-foan-rubber dept.

Engadget is reporting that a new chemical coating, originally designed to repel toxic vapors and liquids from soldiers' uniforms, may be the solution to small waterproof electronics. "The Ion-Mask is a special invisible coating that is chemically bonded to the device and repels water. It should allow waterproofing to make it into devices that are too small for the seals that are usually used to do the trick. Devices can have joins and gaps coated for a general level of water repellence, or have individual components treated for even more protection."

2 of 99 comments (clear)

  1. quite useful by pwnies · · Score: 5, Interesting

    Considering that I just sent my iPod through a ride in the washing machine, this could be quite useful. Not only for waterproofing, but also for cleaning electronics. Sure you can send your keyboard through the dishwasher, but you still have to let it dry for quite a while. It'd be a nice way to clean more intricate electronics as well.

  2. Other applications... by illegibledotorg · · Score: 5, Interesting

    I guess this could be nice in the "small device" application that they mention, but other bigger devices come to mind:

    - Ever ruin a laptop by spilling soda on it? It might still be sticky, but you wouldn't fry the motherboard.
    - Ever tried waterproofing an outdoor AP or camera? You have to be very aggressive -- this could make things easier.

    It would be great if this stuff came to market like a Rustoleum-type spray.