Can Cerium Oxide Be Used to Remove Scratches from a Touch Screen?

Explore the effectiveness of cerium oxide in rectifying touch screen scratches, from its application process to important considerations.

Understanding Cerium Oxide

Cerium oxide, a fine abrasive, is widely utilized in various polishing applications. This versatile compound is perfect for smoothing out glass and plastic surfaces. Learning how to harness its power for touch screen maintenance can save you both money and time.

Effective Application of Cerium Oxide

To use cerium oxide effectively on your touch screen, follow these steps:

Create a polish slurry:

Mix cerium oxide with water to form a slurry. This mixture will act as an effective yet gentle polish.

Prepare the area:

Apply a small amount of the slurry to a microfiber cloth. Gently rub the affected area in circular motions.

Proper cleaning:

Wipe the area clean with a damp cloth once polishing is complete. This helps remove any residual material.

Considerations and Important Advice

While cerium oxide offers a promising solution, There are several factors to consider:

Type of Screen:

Polishing is generally more effective on glass screens compared to plastic ones. Plastic screens can be more prone to scratches and damage.

Dealing with Deep Scratches:

Cerium oxide is effective for light scratches but may not fully eliminate deeper ones. Professional repair may be necessary for severe scratches.

Initial Testing:

Try the method on a small, inconspicuous area first to avoid adverse effects. This helps ensure the applicability without damage.

Alternative Methods Using Cerium Oxide

While cerium oxide offers a reliable method, it's not the only solution. Other products may also contain cerium oxide:

Toothpaste:

Some toothpaste brands include cerium oxide, which is gentle enough for touch screens and widely available.

Optical Disc Polish:

Optical disc polishes, particularly those intended for CDs and DVDs, may contain cerium oxide. This makes them a good alternative for touch screen maintenance.

Testing on Plastic Touch Screens

For plastic touch screens, the process may differ due to their softer nature:

Courtesy of Cerium Oxide

Ensure the cerium oxide is exceedingly fine. Polish in small, circular motions to avoid excessive abrasion.

Initial Testing Again

Test in a small, inconspicuous area that doesn't affect the display area first. This helps ensure that there will be no adverse effects.

Conclusion

While cerium oxide can be a viable solution for removing scratches from your touch screen, it is crucial to understand the limitations and proper application techniques. Always verify your device's manufacturer's recommendations before attempting any scratch removal methods.