Safety and Design in Materials for Explosion-Risk Environments
In the industrial sector, managing electrostatic charges is an essential requirement, especially when operating in ATEX environments (ATmosphères EXplosibles).
Under these conditions, even a minimal discharge can trigger flammable or explosive atmospheres, necessitating the use of antistatic materials with controlled and stable resistivity over time.
The new LATIOHM PD02 family addresses these needs with an innovative approach: offering permanent antistatic compounds that are colorable and easily processable, designed to combine reliable electrical performance with superior aesthetic quality.
Permanent Antistatic Compounds: Balance between Safety and Functionality
ATEX regulations stipulate that the surface resistivity of components used in hazardous areas must not exceed 10⁹ Ω.
Although highly conductive materials (filled with carbon black or carbon fibers) can meet this limit, they often introduce mechanical, aesthetic, or processability issues.
To overcome these limitations, LATI has developed LATIOHM PD02 compounds, based on inherently antistatic polymers.
This technology maintains permanent resistivity between 10⁷ and 10⁹ Ω, without using black or abrasive conductive fillers, preserving the colorability and original mechanical properties of the polymer matrix.
Key Features of PD02 Compounds:
- Permanent and uniform antistatic properties, independent of humidity and aging.
- Controlled resistivity (10⁷–10⁹ Ω) compliant with ATEX requirements.
- Complete colorability, including light or transparent shades.
- Excellent mechanical stability and resistance to impacts and deformation.
- Compatibility with amorphous or semi-crystalline polymers such as ABS, PP, and PA.
- Availability of reinforced grades for structural applications.
Applications in ATEX Environments
The colorable antistatic PD02 compounds are ideal for all situations requiring electrostatic discharge prevention without sacrificing aesthetics or functionality.
Application Examples:
- Housings and enclosures for control electronics in industrial plants.
- Casings and components for sensors or measurement systems in explosive atmospheres.
- Portable devices and safety instruments for construction sites, mines, and oil platforms.
- Food or mineral powder transport systems, where ESD management is crucial.
PD02 formulations ensure resistance to thermal cycles, UV rays, and chemical agents, essential characteristics for prolonged outdoor use or harsh operating conditions.
Aesthetics and Safety: the Revolution of Colorable Compounds
Unlike compounds filled with carbon black or carbon fibers, which limit coloring to black and reduce surface gloss, LATIOHM PD02 enables the production of colored parts with high aesthetic quality.
This advantage opens new possibilities for visual customization and industrial branding, without compromising ATEX compliance.
Companies can now produce safe and visually distinctive technical components, aligned with modern workplace ergonomics and design requirements.
Processing Ease and Productivity
PD02 compounds are designed for simple and stable processing.
They don’t require special modifications to molds or process parameters and offer excellent flowability during injection molding, even with reinforcements.
Furthermore, the homogeneous dispersion of antistatic polymers in the matrix ensures uniform electrical continuity throughout the part, without performance variations from area to area.
| Property | Benefit |
| Controlled resistivity | Consistent ATEX safety over time |
| Total colorability | Aesthetic and visual flexibility |
| Excellent processability | Efficient and repeatable production |
| UV resistance | Suitable for outdoor use |
| Mechanical stability | Reliability in harsh environments |
Conclusion
Discover the LATIOHM PD02 range, the permanent colorable antistatic compounds designed for safety in ATEX environments.
Learn more about our solutions at www.lati.com or request a personalized technical consultation.
FAQ – Colorable Antistatic Compound for ATEX Environments
- What does permanent antistatic mean?
It is a material that maintains its resistivity over time, independent of humidity or aging, without requiring migrating additives. - Are PD02 compounds suitable for ATEX applications?
Yes, they are designed to ensure surface resistivity between 10⁷ and 10⁹ Ω, in full compliance with ATEX regulations. - Can antistatic compounds be colored?
Yes, thanks to the absence of carbon black or graphite, PD02 compounds are fully colorable, even in light or neutral shades.
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