Anti-static materials for electronics plants
Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can destroy or weaken sensitive components with just a few dozen volts, far below the threshold humans can perceive. Antistatic films, tapes and trays are an essential layer of protection at every stage from the warehouse to the assembly line.
An effective ESD control program involves more than wrist straps and bench mats; it also requires suitable packaging, transport and fixing materials.
Understanding ESD material classes
Antistatic materials are classified by surface resistance:
- Conductive: below 10⁴ Ω, dissipates charge very quickly, used for premium component trays and containers.
- Static dissipative: 10⁴ to 10¹¹ Ω, dissipates charge in a controlled manner, the most common class for mats, trays and tapes.
- Insulative: above 10¹¹ Ω, holds charge and should be kept away from sensitive components.
Materials commonly used in plants
Shielding bags and films
Static shielding bags have a thin metal layer that forms a Faraday cage, protecting components from external electric fields during storage and transport.
Antistatic tape
Ordinary tape can generate thousands of volts when peeled. ESD tape with a dissipative film and adhesive limits the charge generated on unwinding and is used for sealing, securing components or masking on boards.
Trays and liners
Conductive plastic trays, antistatic foam and bench liners provide a safe surface for components throughout handling.
ESD damage rarely shows up right at the plant. Weakened components still pass functional tests but fail early in the hands of users, so the real cost of a non-compliant tray is far greater than its price.
Materials Consultant, AMS Vietnam
Periodic testing of ESD materials
- Measure the surface resistance of trays, mats and tapes periodically with a dedicated meter.
- Discard trays that are heavily scratched or soiled in ways that alter their properties.
- Control cleanroom humidity, as overly dry environments increase charge buildup.
- Mark EPA protected areas and train staff to comply.
When selecting ESD tape, ask the supplier for unwind voltage data at a standard speed instead of relying solely on surface resistance. Two tapes with the same resistance can still generate very different voltages when peeled.
AMS supplies antistatic tapes, films and consumables that meet ANSI/ESD S20.20 and IEC 61340-5-1. Contact AMS Vietnam for advice on solutions for your production area.
