Membrane Keyboards and Protection Against Moisture and Corrosion

Membrane keyboards are now widely used in industry, healthcare, and the military. Their reliable operation is crucial for safety and the proper functioning of many systems. However, moisture, frequent cleaning, and harsh industrial environments can quickly lead to damage—primarily through corrosion of conductive elements and degradation of structural materials.

Fortunately, modern technology offers effective methods of protecting membrane keyboards. Multi-layer protective coatings, advanced sealing systems, and specialized gaskets can safeguard even the most sensitive components from harmful environmental factors.

In our research laboratory, we continuously develop technologies to protect membrane keyboards from the destructive effects of moisture and corrosion. Our protective solutions, tested under conditions far exceeding typical environmental requirements, have proven themselves in thousands of industrial implementations. The coatings and sealing systems we have developed not only protect electronics from damage but also ensure uninterrupted interface performance in the most demanding environments.

Why Is Protection Against Moisture and Corrosion Important?

The construction of membrane keyboards is based on precisely arranged conductive layers separated by insulating materials. Although this multilayer structure is robust and reliable under normal conditions, it becomes vulnerable when exposed to prolonged moisture.

Moisture can cause serious functional issues. Since water conducts electricity, it may create unintended connections between conductive traces. As a result, keyboard malfunctions may occur, including erratic signals or complete loss of functionality in certain keys.

Additionally, long-term exposure to moisture compromises structural integrity. Water penetrating between layers weakens adhesive bonds, leading to delamination. Consequently, the keyboard loses mechanical stability, which may manifest as inconsistent key response or complete structural failure.

Corrosion – The Silent Killer of Electronic Devices

A direct consequence of prolonged moisture exposure is the gradual corrosion of metal components. Although often invisible to the naked eye, corrosion systematically damages critical parts of the device. It is caused by a chemical reaction between metal elements, moisture, and oxygen.

The first symptom is a gradual deterioration of conductive properties. Oxidized conductive traces lose their ability to efficiently transmit electrical signals, initially causing unstable key performance. Over time, oxide layers may become thick enough to completely block current flow in certain areas.

Progressive corrosion also weakens the device’s mechanical structure. Oxidized components lose strength, potentially leading to cracked conductive traces and structural delamination. Ultimately, the keyboard becomes vulnerable to mechanical damage, and repair is often impossible.

Protective Coatings – The Foundation of Membrane Keyboard Protection

Protective coatings are thin material layers applied to the keyboard surface to protect against moisture, dust, and chemicals. Several types exist, differing in properties and applications.

Conformal Coatings

Conformal coatings form a perfectly adhering protective layer that precisely follows the topography of the protected surface. Their key advantage is comprehensive protection. They prevent moisture penetration into sensitive electronic components while blocking dust and aggressive chemicals. Thanks to anti-corrosion properties, they significantly extend the lifespan of metal parts.

Different materials are used:

  • Silicones – excellent flexibility and resistance to extreme temperatures
  • Polyurethanes – outstanding abrasion and mechanical resistance
  • Epoxy coatings – extremely hard and tight protective barriers

Transparency is an important feature, particularly for keyboards with printed graphics or backlighting, ensuring full functionality and aesthetics.

At the Qwerty laboratory, we have developed a proprietary conformal coating technology that guarantees exceptional durability and uniform coverage while maintaining full device functionality.

Hydrophobic Coatings

Hydrophobic coatings actively repel water. Liquid droplets bead up and roll off instead of penetrating the surface.

At the microscopic level, these coatings create a surface structure that reduces water adhesion. Even during heavy rain or liquid splashes, the keyboard surface remains practically dry. Their hydrophobic properties are long-lasting, ensuring durable protection.

They are especially valuable in portable devices exposed to changing weather conditions—industrial terminals, measuring equipment, and logistics systems must remain fully operational regardless of rain or humidity.

The Qwerty team has optimized the hydrophobic coating process to maintain protective properties even after years of intensive use.

Nanotechnology Coatings

Nanotechnology has introduced new possibilities in membrane keyboard protection. Nanocoatings operate at the molecular level, forming an ultra-thin yet highly effective protective barrier only a few nanometers thick. Despite their microscopic thickness, they provide high resistance to moisture and aggressive chemicals.

Their key advantage is invisibility. The protective layer does not alter the keyboard’s appearance or tactile properties. Keys remain responsive, and markings stay clear—even in harsh industrial conditions.

Sealing – The Highest Level of Protection

Sealing represents the most advanced method of protecting membrane keyboards. This comprehensive system creates an absolutely tight barrier that prevents moisture, dust, and other harmful factors from reaching sensitive electronic components.

Housing-Level Sealing

During the design of sealed keyboards, special attention is given to the enclosure. Each element is precisely fitted and sealed, forming a unified protective barrier. Special sealing systems protect all critical points—from cable entries to structural joints.

Sealing Technologies

Effective sealing requires specialized insulating materials:

  • Silicone elastomers – maintain flexibility and tightness even at extreme temperatures
  • High-strength plastics – provide mechanical resistance against external damage

Filling with Protective Compounds

In some designs, the keyboard interior is filled with protective materials that prevent condensation and stabilize internal temperature, increasing reliability in changing environments.

Ingress Protection Standards

Sealed keyboards are classified according to the international IP (Ingress Protection) standard:

  • IP65 – full dust protection and resistance to water jets from any direction
  • IP67 – protection against immersion in water up to 1 meter for 30 minutes
  • IP68 – highest protection level, allowing long-term immersion at greater depths

All Qwerty keyboards undergo rigorous laboratory testing under simulated extreme conditions, including chemical resistance tests.

Industries Where Moisture and Corrosion Resistance Is Critical

Manufacturing Plants

High humidity and frequent washdowns—especially in the food industry—require fully sealed, hydrophobic solutions to ensure production continuity.

Laboratories and Medical Facilities

Frequent disinfection and potential liquid spills demand keyboards resistant to both moisture and aggressive cleaning agents.

Outdoor Devices

Payment terminals, ticket machines, and access systems must operate reliably in rain, fog, and condensation. High IP ratings are essential for long-term performance.

The Future of Membrane Keyboard Protection

Advancements in materials and electronics are opening new perspectives in protection technologies.

A promising direction is self-healing smart coatings. These advanced materials can automatically repair micro-damage by filling gaps with reactive compounds, restoring protective continuity and significantly extending service life.

Another breakthrough is IoT integration. Built-in humidity and temperature sensors enable real-time monitoring of operating conditions, allowing preventive action before damage occurs.

Comprehensive Qwerty Protection Solutions

In designing our membrane keyboards, we apply advanced, comprehensive protection technologies against moisture and corrosion. We tailor protection levels to customer requirements—whether for a disinfectant-resistant medical keyboard or a fully sealed IP68 industrial terminal.

Our research laboratory continuously develops innovative technologies, including intelligent self-healing coatings. Combined with rigorous real-world testing, this ensures our position as a leader in high-quality industrial interfaces.

By choosing Qwerty solutions, customers receive products that meet the highest industry standards.