Nanotechnology-based waterproof coatings are taking the internet by storm. Companies such as NeverWet, P2i and UltraEverDry are promising to protect your precious objects, electronics and home surfaces with their nanomaterial products. Albeit for only about a year before they start to break down – especially when exposed to light. These products use a wide range of chemicals, some of which we’ve sadly encountered before – such as fluorocarbons like Teflon. Now, companies are using industrial pulsed-plasma and fluorocarbon polymer coatings, to provide a “‘magical’ protective liquid repellent nano-coating for smartphones”, and other electronic devices. However, perhaps of even more immediate concern to consumers, is UltraEverDry.
Using a mixture of Bayer proprietary compounds (with names like BAYHYDROL 124) and a mixture of noxious solvents like xylene, UltraEverDry is sprayed onto surfaces in two simple stages. UltraEverDry is ostensibly for industrial use only. The US online shop even lists simple respirators, goggles and gloves for sale − although sadly these were not in stock when we looked. However, this policy isn’t enforced and there is lots of evidence of consumer demand and use. On deeper inspection, UltraTech does warn against women using the product, as the chemicals can cause “reproductive toxicity” and are harmful to pregnant women. You’ve been warned …
