ESD Electrostatic Discharge Compounds

These compounds have a resistivity in the region of 10 -10 Q/sq and are designed for use where slow and controlled dissipation of static charges is required. EMI shielding compounds, for protection of electronic components from electrostatic discharge, offer a surface resistivity of lower than 10 i2/sq, with volume resistivity of lower than 1 cm and up to 55 dB attenuation. 

Compounds dissipate a surface charge and can be processed by normal thermoplastic methods. Typical applications are boxes and in-plant handling containers for electronic components or chemicals where there is a risk of explosion from a spark. Medical products also increasingly have ESD specification, especially for use in an operating theatre. Packaging products such as flexible films also require some form of anti-static treatment, either by means of an additive, or by using external field generators. 

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