Condom packages often say "electronically tested". How can you test a condom electronically?
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4\$\begingroup\$ You pour electrons into them and see if it holds or they pass through. \$\endgroup\$– VladCommented Mar 26, 2013 at 15:36
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\$\begingroup\$ Why the downvotes? It's a serious question. \$\endgroup\$– Johan.ACommented Mar 26, 2013 at 17:36
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12\$\begingroup\$ I don't understand why this question is closed. It's about electronics, more specifically about the design of test equipment. It agrees with the requirements in the FAQ. \$\endgroup\$– Johan.ACommented Mar 26, 2013 at 17:51
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1 Answer
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First google result for condom electronic testing:
Although DUREX® condoms are now ready for packaging, they will not reach that stage until they have undergone a series of stringent Quality Control tests. This adherence to high quality standards has helped make DUREX® the leading condom brand in the world today. With a product such as a condom, where quality is vitally important to the user, it is essential that every reasonable effort is made to ensure the reliability of DUREX® condoms.
Electronic testing as well as the tests specified by national and international standards, DUREX® condoms are electronically tested. This involves each condom being stretched over a metal former and subjected to a voltage current. Any breakdown of the film is measured and minor flaws, even ones far too small to be detected by the human eye, result in the condom being instantly rejected.
IV. ELECTRONIC TESTING All condoms are electronically tested for pinholes in the manufacturing area. This is accomplished by subjecting them to a high-voltage test that rejects individual condoms that, due to pinholes, allow current to be conducted across the rubber film.
The latex has insulation properties. If a hole or defect is present, it will not insulate properly, hence rejected.
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32\$\begingroup\$ Ah, a voltage current! Why didn't I think of this? \$\endgroup\$– gbarryCommented Mar 26, 2013 at 15:08
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\$\begingroup\$ @gbarry updated to make it a bit clearer. \$\endgroup\$– PasserbyCommented Mar 26, 2013 at 15:13
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2\$\begingroup\$ Basically, the dielectric strength of latex is much, much higher then the equivalent thickness of air. As such, it sounds like they place the condoms between two electrodes, and apply a voltage that is insufficient to cause the latex to experience dielectric breakdown, but more then sufficient to cause breakdown in the equivalent thickness of air. Then, you just measure the current between the two electrodes. No current means the latex is contiguous. Any current flow means there is a conduction path through the latex. \$\endgroup\$ Commented Mar 27, 2013 at 8:54