electrostatic characteristics 

Static electricity causes problems in industries such as paper making, packaging (particularly where plastic sheeting is involved), chemical and pharmaceutical plants and indeed anywhere where fluids, powders or other materials are used in any processes where friction is involved.

As far as cleanrooms are concerned, the presence of electrostatic charges can cause particular problems. Clearly, as in the case of records and record player covers, the static can attract dirt and dust; this not only makes the room more difficult to clean but encourages the accumulation of materials which may provide nutrient for the growth of micro-organisms. This in turn can result in a direct increase in the number of particles being generated within the clean space.

Investigations were carried out by the University of Bangor on various wall panel samples and the results of the MSS wall panel are:

  • High surface resistivity
  • High surface capacitance per unit area resulting in low 'long term' surface potential.
The benefits of these results are:
  • A surface with low dust attraction characteristics
  • A surface giving rise to only a small electric field radiating outwards - again reducing dust attraction and minimising the likelihood of damage to nearby electrostatic-discharge sensitive devices.
  • A surface with slow discharge characteristics - this can prevent damage to any devices already carrying a static charge.
  • A surface which is easier to keep clean.
  • A surface which is less likely to allow the accumulation of materials which can act as nutrients for microbes.