New conductive functional coating DJIC-AS01

Conductive polymer network in the dried coating film

With DJIC-AS01, TRAMACO expands its portfolio to include a coating solution for applications in which electrostatic charge must be reliably reduced and dissipated in a controlled manner. Based on available test data, the product falls within the ESD-dissipative category. As such, DJIC-AS01 is primarily intended for manufacturers and processors of electronic packaging, technical films, protective covers, machine covers, and other components where sensitive electronic components need to be protected from electrostatic discharge.

The conductive properties of DJIC-AS01 result from a network of PEDOT:PSS in the dried coating film. The polyurethane matrix ensures film formation, adhesion, and flexibility. According to the available sample data, electrical conductivity increases with increasing layer thickness. Surface resistances of approximately 10⁷ Ω/sq at 13.7 μm, about 10^6.3 Ω/sq at 22.8 μm, and approximately 10^5.8 Ω/sq at 32.0 μm dry film thickness were measured.

Thin, transparent functional coatings

DJIC-AS01 is particularly suitable for applications in which the visual appearance of the coated component must be largely preserved. With the appropriate coating thickness, thin and transparent functional coatings can be achieved. The achievable surface resistance can be tailored to the specific application by adjusting the application rate, dilution, drying process, and resulting dry film thickness. Generally, a thicker film results in lower surface resistance, while thinner films can provide greater transparency.

Possible substrates include PET, PVC, glass, and pretreated polyolefins such as PE and PP. Depending on the substrate and the requirements, a multilayer structure may be appropriate. This consists, for example, of a suitable pretreatment or an adhesion primer, the DJIC-AS01 functional layer, and, if necessary, a very thin protective layer.

Applications of DJIC-AS01

• ESD-protective packaging such as trays, blister packs, films, and component containers
• transparent plastic parts, viewing windows, protective covers, and machine covers
• technical film coatings on PET, PVC, and pretreated PE or PP
• lightweight coatings for tables and equipment in electrostatic-sensitive work areas
• thin conductive layers on glass and transparent protective surfaces

Application-specific testing remains crucial

TRAMACO recommends first testing DJIC-AS01 in a defined paint and coating test on the intended substrate. In addition to surface resistance, particular attention should be paid to evaluating transparency, adhesion, abrasion and scratch resistance, resistance to water and cleaning agents, as well as behavior after aging and under varying humidity conditions. For many applications, DJIC-AS01 is initially best suited as a separate functional layer. Direct use as an additive in any paint system should only occur after testing its miscibility and the effects on the conductive network.

Technical consulting and sampling

With the launch of DJIC-AS01, TRAMACO is expanding its range of functional coating solutions for demanding industrial applications. Customers receive support in selecting suitable coating systems, defining target values, and planning application-specific test series. Samples and additional technical information are available from TRAMACO.