Static Dissipative vs Conductive Coatings: Which Is Right for Your Project?

Which ESD Flooring System Do You Actually Need?

When choosing ESD (electrostatic discharge) flooring, one of the most important questions is whether your application requires a static dissipative or conductive flooring system.

Both are designed to help control electrostatic discharge, but they provide different levels of electrical resistance and are suited to different environments.

Our anti-static systems are available in two classifications:

Static Dissipative — <10⁹ Ω

Conductive — <10⁶ Ω

So, what's the difference — and which one is right for your facility?

Static Dissipative Epoxy Flooring (<10⁹ Ω)

Static dissipative flooring provides a controlled pathway for accumulated electrical charge to dissipate, helping reduce the risk of electrostatic discharge around sensitive equipment and components.

It is commonly used in environments such as:

• Electronics manufacturing and assembly

• Data centres and server environments

• Laboratories

• Cleanrooms

• Medical and pharmaceutical facilities

  
  

If the primary concern is protecting sensitive electronic components or equipment from ESD, a static dissipative system such as the Enviroset E4116 ESD may be the appropriate specification.

Conductive Epoxy Flooring (<10⁶ Ω)

Conductive flooring provides a lower-resistance pathway for electrical charge and is used where a higher level of static control or a specific resistance requirement applies.

It may be suitable for:

• Hazardous or classified areas

• Fuel handling and storage areas

• Chemical processing facilities

• Facilities handling flammable or explosive materials

• Energetic material handling or manufacturing areas

Where project documentation or the applicable standard specifies resistance of 10⁶ Ω or less, a conductive flooring system such as Enviroset E4116 Conductive may be required.

Importantly, conductive flooring should not simply be considered a "better" version of dissipative flooring. The correct system depends on the electrical performance, grounding requirements and standards applicable to the facility.

Which ESD Floor Should You Choose?

As a simple starting point:

Protecting sensitive electronics? A static dissipative epoxy floor such as the E4116 ESD may be appropriate.

Working in a hazardous, flammable or explosive environment? Consider a conductive system such as the E4116 Conductive.

Already have a project specification? Use the electrical resistance and testing requirements stated in the specification to determine the appropriate system.

Need Help Choosing an ESD Epoxy Flooring System?

If you're unsure which one you should use, we can help.

ChromaGuard can help identify the appropriate product system for your application and provide product information, technical documentation and pricing for your project.

Get in touch: info@chromaguard.com.au

Call or WhatsApp: 0494 798 873