Liquid Optical Bonding vs. Dry Optical Bonding

Optical bonding is the process of connecting the touch sensors and cover glass to an LCD panel and other internal components of the device. This necessary process is done to secure the two parts together to create a solid bond without any pockets of air or air gaps between the layers. Optical bonding ensures that screens are effective, long-lasting, clear, and durable.

Liquid Optical Bonding

Liquid bonding is completed using a transparent, liquid adhesive that takes the LCD panels and adheres them to the custom touch screen device. UV Radiation is then used to solidify the process and give you a strong optical bond.

Dry Optical Bonding

In a different approach, dry optical bonding is done without using UV radiation, like liquid bonding. The dry process laminates a ready-formed silicone adhesive sheet between the LCD panel and the touch screen or cover glass under vacuum, with no liquid adhesive and nothing to cure.

Here at FORTEC US, we’re optical bonding experts! Our own industry-leading VacuBond® optical bonding uses a dry bonding process that allows for zero optical defect production and provides perfect material stability with no yellowing, along with a clear image and incredible durability. Our method uses pure silicone gel sheets with the bonds performed in a vacuum chamber to yield perfect results every time. 

Liquid vs Dry Optical Bonding at a Glance

	Liquid (wet) bonding	Dry bonding (VacuBond®)
Adhesive	Liquid adhesive such as silicone gel, epoxy, or urethane	Pre-cured silicone adhesive sheet
Curing	Cured with UV light	Nothing to cure
Yellowing over time	UV-cured adhesive is prone to yellowing	Does not yellow
Rework	UV-cured bond cannot be reworked	Silicone stays pliable, so the bond can be reworked
Defect risk	Liquid can seep into the LCD and ruin it; bubbles and debris can be trapped	Laminated in a vacuum chamber in an ISO Class 7 clean room, so no bubbles or debris

Contact Us Today to Learn More About Our Custom Digital Screen Solutions!

As the global leader in optical bonding, FORTEC US supports you in all project phases – from the construction of the metal housing and procurement of specific parts to the in-house development of controller boards and touchscreen integration. In need of a product, part, or have a project in mind? Contact us today at (631) 648-6400 or click here for more information.

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