The Evolution of waterproofing your drone

Waterproofing electronic circuit boards is crucial to protect them from moisture and environmental elements. Here are some common methods of waterproofing:

1. Conformal Coating:

   • This involves applying a thin layer of a protective coating directly onto the circuit board. The coating can be acrylic, silicone, epoxy, or urethane. It protects against moisture, dust, chemicals, and other environmental factors.

2. Potting/Encapsulation:

   • Potting involves encapsulating the entire circuit board or specific components in a solid or gel-like material, such as epoxy resin. This provides excellent protection against moisture, mechanical stress, and other external elements.

3. Nano-coating: The New kid on the block.

   • Nano-coating technologies use ultra-thin layers of hydrophobic material at the nanoscale. These coatings repel water and can be applied using various methods like dip coating, spray coating, or vapor deposition.

4. Enclosures and Seals:

   • Placing the entire electronic system within a waterproof enclosure is a straightforward method. The enclosure should have proper seals, gaskets, and O-rings to prevent water from entering. This method is common in outdoor electronics.

5. Waterproofing Sprays:

   • There are commercially available waterproofing sprays designed specifically for electronics. These sprays create a thin, protective layer on the surface of the circuit board, preventing water from reaching the components.

6. Hydrophobic and Oleophobic Coatings:

   • These coatings repel both water (hydrophobic) and oils (oleophobic). They can be applied to the surface of the circuit board to prevent the adhesion of water and contaminants.

7. UV Curing Compounds:

   • UV curing compounds are liquid materials that harden when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. They are used for conformal coating and potting applications, providing a protective layer once cured.

8. Membrane Switch Sealing:

   • For applications involving membrane switches, a sealing layer can be added to protect against water ingress. This is especially important for devices that require touch-sensitive interfaces.

9. Hermetic Sealing:

   • In some critical applications, a hermetic seal, which is a completely airtight and watertight seal, may be employed. This is often used in military or aerospace electronics.

10. Gel Filling:

    • Filling the enclosure with a gel-like substance provides protection against moisture and vibrations. The gel conforms to the shape of the components and prevents water penetration.

The choice of waterproofing method depends on factors such as the specific application, environmental conditions, cost considerations, and the level of protection required. It's common to use a combination of these methods for optimal protection.