Anti-static agents are used to either manage static charges during various stages of processing or to provide long-term static protection based on end-use applications. But, searching the right additive for your product among a variety of them available in the market, could be a daunting task!.
Get a comprehensive review of important aspects related to antistats and their chemistries along with the factors that influence selection of anti-static agents including their compatibility with various polymers like polyolefins, polyesters, polyamides, fluoropolymers, and more plastics are insulating materials subjected to electrostatic build-up and discharge depending on the surface resistivity of the part. Plastics such as PP and PVC, tend to collect electrons and become negatively charged. Antistats are materials controlling the accumulation of static electrical charge especially on polymer surfaces.This accumulation of charge at the surface makes the material prone to electric discharges, dust adhesion and static clings.
The dissipation of the static charge relies on creating conditions for unwanted electrons to move away from the surface. Most antistats make use of charge structures to dissipate the material accumulated charge. Other antistats rely solely on electronic lone pairs of electrons and/or hygroscopic properties.In general, dissipative or ESD polymers have:
A surface resistivity in a range from 105 or 106 up to 1012 ohms.
A static discharge half-life generally inferior to 60 seconds.
According to the targeted application, beware of too low resistivity leading to conductive polymers and inherent risks. Problems are of very various seriousness, from minor to very serious and even dreadful ones:
- Dust and other pollutants attraction with marketing, use and processing problems
- Electrostatic build-up or discharges when touching the plastic parts: synthetic carpets, knobs, car handles
- Painting and printing defects
- Fire or explosion of inflammable or explosive environment, organic powders
- TV, radio, electronic interferences