What are waterproof maps?

Waterproof maps are maps that can be in direct contact with a large amount of water and remain completely usable. Waterproof maps are commonly used by tourists and others who need to navigate outside. They are best able to handle moisture and rain; Complete immersion could lead to some damage to some types of waterproof maps. The waterproof map is generally printed on waterproof paper and if the map is not laminated, it is printed by a waterproof ink, which will not blur or run when exposed to water. There are many different methods that can be used to create a functional waterproof map.

The paper on which the map is printed is most important. Normal paper, when exposed to water, is very easy to cry and tear. This would obviously not work for waterproof maps, because they must remain functional, even if they are exposed to water. In some cases, many maps are included in the Map book; In this case, it is a common only front and back cover of the book to be waterproofSnap.

There are two primary methods of waterproofing paper. The paper can be made with thick, tightly bound fibers that can withstand water that can resist the water saturation. This results in a very strong waterproof paper; However, only specialized inks can be used to indicate such paper, which generally leads to higher total costs. The second method is lamination; The paper can be covered with a transparent synthetic coating that repels water. However, laminated maps can sometimes be rigid and cumbersome and lamination costs more money than printing on normal paper.

Ink used to produce waterproof maps is also extremely important. Regular ink dye is made of very small particles soluble in water; When they are exposed to water, they tend to blur and run throughout the side. However, pigment inks are made of larger particles that are not soluble in water; Once inkIt saturates paper, dries and tends to blur very little if at all. Pigment inks and other stronger inks are often used to produce waterproof maps. However, it is not necessary when the paper on which the map is printed is laminated.

Waterproof maps use many individuals for professional and personal reasons. For example, they are popular with military staff because they can survive very hard conditions and remain applicable. Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy them very much for the same reasons. Next topographic maps are very common; Detailed geographical maps of the area are much more used outdoors in rainy conditions than political maps or atlases.