Dispelling the Myths About Static Control Paints

Static control paints (more accurately described as ESD control coatings) are widely used in electronics, aerospace, and manufacturing environments—but not all paints are created equal. Many misconceptions exist about how they work, their durability, and whether they truly provide permanent ESD protection. Let’s separate fact from fiction.

This article focuses on static control coatings as part of a wider ESD strategy, which is explained in more detail within the
ProShieldESD filler-free ESD coating platform.

Myth 1: All ESD Paints Provide the Same Protection

Fact: Traditional ESD coatings usually rely on carbon or metal fillers to achieve conductivity. These fillers can clump, settle, and create weak points. The result? Inconsistent protection across the surface.

ProShield Advantage: ProShield ESD coatings deliver homogeneous, permanent conductivity—no fillers, no hot spots, no weak zones.

Myth 2: ESD Paints Last Forever

Fact: Conventional paints degrade over time. Abrasion, cleaning, and environmental exposure all reduce performance, meaning they often need reapplication.

ProShield Advantage: ProShield is a permanent polymer-based coating. It bonds directly to surfaces and maintains its conductivity without reapplication, even under demanding conditions.

Myth 3: Paints Can Replace All Other Static Control Measures

Fact: Paints are only one layer of protection. They work best when integrated into the ESD Control Pyramid alongside grounding, dissipative materials, and anti-static measures. Effective static control programs are typically designed around IEC 61340 and ANSI/ESD S20.20, where coatings act as one controlled element rather than a standalone solution.

ProShield Advantage: Because ProShield covers the full range—from conductive (10⁴ Ω) through dissipative (10⁹ Ω)—it integrates seamlessly into layered ESD programs.

Myth 4: Molded ESD Plastics Are Always Better Than Paints

Fact: Molded parts are expensive, require tooling, and can also suffer from inconsistent conductivity due to filler distribution.

ProShield Advantage: ProShield coatings eliminate the need for costly molded plastics. They can be applied directly to standard plastics, foams, housings, and floors—delivering permanent, uniform protection at a lower cost.

The Truth About ProShield ESD
ProShield ESD coatings stand apart from traditional static control paints:

Permanent protection (no reapplication needed)
Homogeneous conductivity across every surface
Coverage from 10⁴ to 10⁹ Ω (conductive through dissipative)
Flexible, cost-effective alternative to both filler-based paints and molded plastics

By dispelling the myths, it’s clear: ProShield ESD is not just another paint—it’s a breakthrough in permanent, reliable static control.

To explore the technology, test data, and application options in more detail, visit www.proshieldesd.com.