What Materials Are Used to Make Membrane Switches?

1. Graphic Overlay

The embossing height of the panel is usually 0.3–0.5 mm. Common embossing options include:

1. Round embossed keys with LED lights
2. Dome-shaped embossing
3. Rim embossing
4. Key-shape embossing, including custom shapes
5. Flat keys without embossing

Panel surfaces are available in glossy or matte/textured finishes.

Common panel materials include:

• Glossy or matte PC: 0.175 / 0.25 / 0.38 / 0.5 / 0.8 / 1.0 mm
• Fine-textured PET: F150 / F200
• Medium-textured PET: V150 / V200
• Common PET thicknesses: 0.125 / 0.188 / 0.2 mm
  

2. Front Adhesive

The main function of the front adhesive is to firmly bond the overlay layer and the circuit layer, ensuring sealing and connection. The typical thickness is 0.05–0.15 mm. It should offer strong adhesion and good aging resistance. In production, special double-sided adhesive for membrane switches is commonly used. For waterproof or high-temperature-resistant membrane switches, adhesive materials should be selected according to the actual application requirements.

3. Spacer / Retaining Layer

This layer is located between the front adhesive and the spacer layer. PET double-sided adhesive is generally used, with a thickness of 0.05–0.2 mm. When selecting this material, the overall product thickness, insulation performance, key feel, and sealing performance should be considered.

4. Spacer Layer

The spacer layer is located between the retaining layer and the lower circuit layer. It provides sealing and connection functions. PET double-sided adhesive is commonly used, with a thickness of 0.05–0.2 mm. Material selection should also consider product thickness, insulation, key tactile feel, and sealing requirements.

5. Lower Circuit Layer

This layer usually uses high-performance PET polyester film as the carrier for the switch circuit pattern. Conductive silver paste and conductive carbon paste are screen-printed onto the film through a special process to provide electrical conductivity. The thickness is generally 0.05–0.175 mm, with 0.125 mm PET being the most common choice.

6. Rear Adhesive

The choice of rear adhesive depends on the material to which the membrane switch will be attached. Common options include standard double-sided adhesive, 3M adhesive, and waterproof adhesive.

Four common material options are:

1. 3M 9448A — 0.15 mm
2. 3M 467 — 0.05 mm
3. 3M 468 — 0.13 mm
4. 3M 300LSE — 0.17 mm
   
   

   
   Why Choose Durakeypad for Custom Membrane Switches?
   
   

   At Durakeypad, we specialize in custom membrane switches, membrane keypads, graphic overlays, and silicone rubber keypads for industrial, medical, electronic, and control panel applications. With rich manufacturing experience and strict quality control, we help customers turn their designs into reliable, durable, and cost-effective products.

   
   Our advantages include:

   • 
     Custom Design Support: We can customize size, shape, circuit layout, graphic overlay, adhesive, embossing, LED windows, connectors, and backlighting according to your application.
   • Wide Material Options: We offer PET, PC, 3M adhesive, waterproof adhesive, conductive silver paste, carbon printing, and other materials to meet different working environments.
   • Reliable Quality: Our membrane switches are designed for stable performance, good tactile feedback, long service life, and excellent sealing performance.
   • Fast Prototyping: We support small-batch samples and prototype production to help customers test and validate their designs before mass production.
   • OEM & ODM Service: Whether you have drawings, samples, or only product requirements, our engineering team can provide professional suggestions and customized solutions.
   • Competitive Factory Pricing: As a direct membrane keypad manufacturer, we can offer flexible production, stable quality, and competitive prices.

   If you are looking for a reliable custom membrane switch manufacturer, Durakeypad is ready to support your project from design to production.