Formulation of Antistatic Powder Coatings

Abstract

The aim of this research was to formulate and manufacture a coloured antistatic powder coating. The investigation demonstrated that an insulating polyester powder coating can be formulated to have antistatic properties that do not reduce the functional protective properties of the coating. This functionality can also be achieved in a variety of colours; previous antistatic coating formulations predominantly used carbon black or were very thin transparent films. Different conductive additives, pigments and fillers were extruded and electrostatically applied to aluminum panels, these were evaluated using a 3M surface resistivity meter to determine the degree of antistatic behavior. Intrinsically conductive polymers were able to produce antistatic behaviors at the lowest loading levels. Conductive pigments produced the lowest resistivity, however the required loadings were very high, ultimately restricting the ability to tint the coating. Percolation threshold levels for pigments and fillers could be clearly determined and were also relatively high. This research combined the ecological and economical advantages of powder coatings with the growing demand for antistatic coatings that keep their antistatic properties for the lifetime of the coating.