ESD Plastic: Protect Your Electronics from Static Electricity
We use plastic in many different contexts every day, and sometimes we miss important details. Static electricity is one such detail, and it can be harmful to electronics. Therefore, we will take a closer look at how ESD plastics can protect sensitive components.
But what exactly is static electricity? It occurs when two materials come into contact and then separate. This can happen when we handle plastics, fabrics, or other materials that easily generate static electricity. The question is: how do we protect electronics?
Static Dissipative or Conductive Plastic?
Within ESD plastics, there are two main types: static dissipative and conductive. What distinguishes them? Static dissipative plastics have a surface resistivity between 104 and 1011 ohms, while conductive plastics have a surface resistivity below 104 ohms. Static dissipative plastics dissipate static electricity more slowly than conductive plastics.
A static dissipative plastic, for example HDPE-ESD, can have a surface resistivity of 106 ohms. It dissipates static electricity, but not as quickly as a conductive plastic, such as PA6-ESD with a surface resistivity of 103 ohms.
Common ESD Materials
Several common types of ESD materials are used in the manufacture of electronics and in cleanrooms. POM-C-ESD, a modified polyoxymethylene, is one example. Another is HDPE-ESD, a modified polyethylene.
We also offer PA6-ESD, a modified polyamide. All of these materials are designed to protect electronics from static electricity, but they have different properties and applications.
Test Methods
To test ESD plastics, you can measure the surface resistivity with a resistivity meter. This gives an indication of the material's ability to dissipate static electricity.
Another method is to simulate static discharge with a static generator. It provides a better picture of the material's behavior in real-world conditions.
Use in Electronics and Cleanrooms
ESD plastics are important in electronics production and in cleanrooms. They protect sensitive electronics from static electricity, which can destroy components and cause costly repairs.
In a cleanroom environment, you can use ESD plastics to manufacture tools and equipment that handle sensitive electronics. This minimizes the risk of static electricity and protects the equipment.
Standard plastics generate static electricity because they often have low surface resistivity. In addition, standard plastics may be more prone to generating static electricity during friction or mechanical stress.
Want to protect your electronics? Feel free to contact us if you want to know more about how our ESD plastics can help you!
ESD Plastic: Protect Your Electronics from Static Electricity