Elastomerics Blog

Anti static rubber is designed to prevent the buildup and discharge of static electricity, a form of electrical energy that can damage electronic equipment or ignite flammable materials. Most elastomers are poor conductors of electricity, but they can become polarized when subjected to an electric field. Friction causes rubbery materials to accumulate static charges, so anti static rubber is formulated with special additives that allow static charges to safely dissipate.

Electrical Dissipation vs. Electrical Conductivity

Electrical dissipative materials are not the same as electrically conductive ones. Both allow for the flow of electricity, but dissipative materials have a higher electrical resistance so that electric charges move more slowly and in a controlled manner. This prevents electrostatic discharge (ESD), the sudden flow of electricity between two electrically charged objects. ESD can occur when two objects with electrical charges come in contact, or when a charged object is near a conductive one.

T62 Conductive Coating for Silicone Sponge Rubber

Silicone has a high resistance to the flow of electric current. In some cases, this can result in the buildup of static charges. To combat this, Stockwell Elastomerics has developed T62 conductive coating for silicone sponge rubber. This coating is impregnated into the material and fully cross linked so that it’s conformable and complaint. Stockwell Elastomerics can apply T62 conducive coating to silicone sponge rubber sheets, fabricated parts, or gasket tape.

Anti Static Rubber and Flame Resistance

Anti static rubber isn’t necessarily flame retardant; however, some materials have specific flame ratings. They contain a balance of electrically dissipative additives like carbon black and flame retardants like alumina trihydrate or halogen free compounds. The selection of a base elastomer is also important, and silicone’s inherent resistance to high temperatures can be enhanced to meet flame ratings such as UL 94V-0.

Applications for Anti Static Silicones with UL 94-V0 Flame Resistance

Applications for anti static silicones with UL 94V-0 flame resistance include rubber parts that hold electric vehicles (EV) batteries. Compared to traditional automotive batteries, the lithium ion batteries in EVs carry higher voltages and are susceptible to thermal runaway, an exothermic chemical reaction that leads to an uncontrollable increase in temperature. Because EV batteries generate heat, anti static silicones also provide needed high temperature resistance.

Contact Stockwell Elastomerics for more information about anti static rubber and ask to speak with a member of the Applications Engineering Team for help with material selection.