Are Tekscan sensors waterproof?

Question/Problem: Are Tekscan sensors waterproof?

Answer/Solution: Tekscan sensors are water resistant, but not water proof -- water will eventually seep in if left submersed. That is why we recommend re-sealing them with another adhesive if the sensor will be exposed to water.

When water or other liquids are involved in the measurement, it may be desirable to achieve a Perimeter Seal around the Sensor.  Please recall that Tekscan sensors are fabricated from two thin sheets of polyester sheet, joined by an adhesive.  For production reasons, the adhesive must be screen printable.  The production adhesive is reported to result in an open cell foam that provides an adequate barrier to water for an hour or two, but eventually water will wick or penetrate through it.  Adding a thin layer of adhesive around the perimeter may protect the sensor from water incursion.  Users report that adhesives used to seal aquarium tanks both stand up to water and have grip on polyester sheet.

Here are two brands of silicone sealant:

Glass Tank - made by All Glass http://www.all-glass.com/products/index.html  ~ $3.00  black and clear / comes in a tube

Acrylic Tank- made by Weld-On   http://www.ipscorp.com/industrial/acrylics.html   $6.99 / tube, clear.

Tekscan, Inc.
307 West First Street. South Boston, MA. 02127-1309. USA
tel: 800.248.3669 / 617.464.4500 fax: 617.464.4266
marketing@tekscan.com


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