Electronics are often subject to dissipating static charge build-up on the surface, compromising safety and performance. Electrostatic discharges (ESD) can cause damage to electronic components and faulty devices. This is when conductive masterbatch, ESD masterbatch and antistatic masterbatch come to the rescue. These masterbatches are often interchangeable, though they have distinctive features in handling static discharge. In this blog, we walk you through the difference between conductive masterbatch, ESD masterbatch and antistatic masterbatch and when to use which masterbatch.

Conductive Vs. Antistatic Masterbatch: What Does ‘Conductive’ & ‘Antistatic Mean?

What is a Conductive Masterbatch? 

‘Conductive’ materials allow electric charges to flow easily through them. Certain metals, like aluminium and copper, are naturally conductive, while plastic used in electric components can be conductive to carry electric charges in a controlled manner. A conductive additive masterbatch transforms standard plastic into conductive materials that can conduct electricity. Perfect Colourants & Plastics Pvt.Ltd, a leading conductive masterbatch manufacturer in the USA, offering top-quality conductive MBs that impart permanent conductivity to plastic products. Available in multiple base carriers including PE, PP, PC and jet black colour, they are tailored for the packaging, electronics manufacturing, fuel systems & other applications. 

What is an Antistatic Masterbatch? 

‘Antistatic’ materials are poor conductors of electricity. They help prevent static electricity formation, avoiding charge build-up due to movement or friction. Antistatic additive masterbatches are incorporated during plastic processing for long-lasting antistatic effects. They impart long-term or permanent electrostatic dissipative control properties to the end product. 

What is an ESD Masterbatch? 

ESD (Electrostatic Dissipative) materials reduce electrostatic build-up. They protect sensitive electronic equipment and reduce the risk in highly controlled industrial settings. ESD masterbatches consist of dissipative or conductive components like carbon black to dissipate static electricity & enhance the performance of ESD products. 

Comparing Conductive & Antistatic MB 

Property	Conductive MB	Antistatic MB	ESD MB
Characteristics	Allows electrical charges to move easily	Prevents the formation of static charges	Reduce static build-up &improve ESD performance
Resistivity to electricity	Low	High	Medium
Surface Resistance	101 to 105	1010 to 1011	106 to 109
Usage	Electric components, automotive	Packaging bags & films, coatings	Electronic devices, automotive, 3D printing
Benefit	Full protection for plastic parts	Safety in low-risk environment	Prevents product damage & electrical malfunctions

Conductive Masterbatch, ESD Masterbatch & Antistatic Masterbatch: When to Use Which? 

For sensitive electronics components like circuit boards and microchips, automotive parts, and medical equipment, conductive & ESD masterbatch is more suitable. These MBs make the end products conductive to actively eliminate static electricity and move it quickly. For packaging materials like bags, films or storing electronics to prevent static charge build-up from friction, an antistatic masterbatch is ideal. 

PCPPL: One Stop Destination for Masterbatches and Compounds 

Perfect Colourants & Plastic Pvt.Ltd is a top masterbatch company in UK. With years of experience and expertise in the plastic manufacturing industry, we meet the dynamic needs of diverse industries. From flame retardants, MBs & compounds, glass filled compounds to a comprehensive range of additives, PCPPL cater to all your plastic requirements. For tailored masterbatch solutions, call us.