Advancements in inherently dissipative polymer (IDP) alloys provide new levels of clean, consistent ESD protection

A new class of inherently dissipative polymer (IDP) alloys has been developed through recent advances in IDP formulation utilizing additional charge carriers in the polymerization of the IDP. This new generation of IDP technology delivers static decay times of less than 0.1 s and surface resistance values of 10/sup 7/ /spl Omega/ which are two orders of magnitude better than previously available generations of IDPs. This IDP technology has enabled the development of a new class of IDP alloys with host polymers such as PETG, polypropylene and polyurethane. These IDP alloys reach previously unattainable surface and volume resistance levels of 10/sup 8/ /spl Omega/. These resistance values hold permanently and consistently through injection molding or extrusion due to a flat loading curve, differing from the steep loading curves in this resistance range seen in conductive filler systems. Additional optimization of the IDP alloys has led to improvements in cleanliness. Packaging and components therefore exhibit consistent, permanent surface resistance values between 10/sup 8/ and 10/sup 9/ /spl Omega/ without introducing contaminants into the cleanroom. The new class of IDP alloys provides new levels of clean, consistent ESD protection via a unique blend of electrical, physical, and cleanliness properties of the optimized alloy.