Effect of Moisture content and use of detergents in ESD clothing

ESD (Electrostatic Discharge) measurement of ESD clothing is crucial in ensuring the effectiveness of static control measures in environments sensitive to electrostatic discharge.

When it comes to ESD clothing, such as lab coats, the influence of moisture on their ESD properties after a washing process is significant.After washing a lab coat, the moisture content in the fabric can change.

Moisture acts as a conductor and can affect the electrical resistance of the material. In the case of ESD clothing, the presence of moisture can alter the ESD properties of the fabric.Typically, when ESD clothing becomes wet or damp, the fabric's conductivity may increase, leading to a decrease in its ESD protection capabilities. This change in ESD values can impact the effectiveness of the clothing in dissipating static charges and protecting sensitive electronic components or devices in ESD-controlled environments.

Therefore, it is important to consider the effects of moisture on ESD clothing, especially after washing, and to ensure that the garments maintain their ESD properties to provide reliable protection against electrostatic discharge.

Regular testing and evaluation of ESD clothing after washing processes can help maintain the integrity of their ESD properties and ensure their effectiveness in static control measures.

Detergents use in ESD clothing

When using detergents in ESD clothing, it's important to consider the potential effects on the electrostatic properties of the garments. Detergents typically contain surfactants, among other components, which can interact with water and affect the charge distribution on the clothing.

The surfactants in detergents, especially anionic alkalis, can deplete ESD garments of their positive ions, making them more likely to carry negative charges. This alteration in charge distribution can compromise the effectiveness of the ESD clothing in discharging static electricity.

It is generally advised to avoid using detergents when laundering ESD garments to maintain their electrostatic properties. If detergent usage is necessary, opting for non-ionic detergents designed for delicate fabrics can be a better choice. These detergents lack alkalis and help preserve the neutral pH and electrostatic characteristics of the ESD garments during washing.

By selecting non-ionic detergents, you can minimize the impact on the electrostatic properties of ESD clothing and ensure their continued effectiveness in preventing electrostatic discharge incidents.

Use of Chlorine Bleach

Woven into ESD garments in a grid pattern, the black carbon threading is a crucial component that forms a protective shield around nearby electronics, preventing the transmission of static from your clothes and the skin beneath. This threading not only imparts conductivity to ESD clothing but also establishes its characteristic “static shielding.”

It’s essential to note that chlorine bleach poses a threat to the integrity of the carbon threading, as it attacks carbon bonds, leading to their destruction.

In contrast, non-chlorine bleaches, commonly found in “color-safe” commercial bleaches activated by contact with oxygen in water, are oxidizing bleaches.

Examples include hydrogen peroxide, sodium percarbonate, and sodium perborate. While not as harmful to the carbon threading as chlorine bleach, these non-chlorine bleaches are alkaline and, with repeated use, have the potential to remove carbon.

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