2
\$\begingroup\$

I know there are conductive sprays available, but these are strongly coloured due to the metals inside them. I am trying to make a (dry) wooden surface capacitive, but would like to have the feel and look of the wood remain intact. Therefore I would like a spray/paint/ink that is transparent and conductive and preferably also water-resistant.

Does anyone have any ideas or suggestions?

P.S. I'm using it to measure capacitance all across the wood (which is 1.5m in length) so the resistance per cm^3 doesn't matter. It could have a nice effect if the capacitance differential is significantly different at various distances from the point I measure.

Improve this question
\$\endgroup\$
1
1
\$\begingroup\$

I don't know of any transparent conductive paints. Have you considered using a piece of metal foil (possibly copper roofing foil from a Home Depot or Lowes) with a piece of veneer adhered to it. The capacitive touch sense should still work through the veneer.

You can get all kinds of veneers at Woodcraft if you have a store local to you.

Link to Veneers at Woodcraft

Improve this answer
\$\endgroup\$
3
  • \$\begingroup\$ yes, but I want to have a rough surface and veneer is just too smooth. Thanks for the input though. Appreciate it. \$\endgroup\$ – rfs Mar 3 '14 at 15:11
  • \$\begingroup\$ You should be able to get the capacitive sensing working up to about 1/2 inch. You could look at using RF sensing if you need longer distances. This should allow you to cut a 1/4 thickness of wood. \$\endgroup\$ – euler357 Mar 3 '14 at 15:18
  • \$\begingroup\$ @rfs The "veneer" can be as thick as you wish it to be. 1/4 inch should be fine. \$\endgroup\$ – Kuba hasn't forgotten Monica Mar 3 '14 at 23:20

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.