Polyethylene foam for electronics
Conductive foam is essential if you need to protect your products or parts from both ESD (electrostatic discharge) and physical damage.
Conductive foam is a type of foam that is permanently electrically conductive. Adding carbon during manufacturing means it provides both mechanical cushioning and ESD protection. As such, it is perfect for protecting sensitive electronics during handling and transport by safely redirecting static electricity away from them.
At GWP Conductive, we are the UK leader in manufacturing anti-static packaging (with around 80% market share) and one of the UK’s largest foam converters. Our expert team can advise you on the best option for your specific application, plus design a bespoke, fully tailored solution as required.
Benefits of conductive foam
Conductive foam for electronics provides you with numerous benefits, including:
Technical and conversion information
General
Both HD and LD conductive foams use the same base material as AS 22.
LD foam is dipped dipped in flexible conductive latex, while HD foam is dipped in rigid conductive latex.
HD foam has no structural strength, so suitable for “pin stick” only.
FAQs
What is Conductive foam?
Conductive foam is a polyethylene foam filled with carbon, which gives it its conductive properties and colour. Black conductive foam is designed for repeat use and will act like a Faraday cage when the packaging fully encloses the contents.
How does conductive foam work?
Conductive foam is similar to standard packaging foams, but with one crucial difference: the addition of carbon to the polymer mix during manufacturing to provide a high level of conductivity. The carbon allows any electric current to pass through the foam’s cell structure and away from the component.
Are the conductive properties of foam permanent?
Generally, the foam maintains permanent conductivity, making it ideal for multi-trip packaging and in-plant handling applications. Its performance isn’t affected by atmospheric conditions.
Are there any alternatives to conductive foams?
There are several alternatives to conductive foams. These include pink anti-static foam, static-dissipative foam (Ethafoam), and specialist grades of Plastazote. These all have slightly varying properties and performance, so it is worth speaking with a packaging expert to ascertain the best option for your application.
Is conductive foam suitable for use with ESD-safe packaging?
Conductive foams are suitable for inclusion in a wide range of ESD packaging, including Corstat® boxes, bins and containers. It is also ideal for use in heavier-duty applications, such as Corriplast and SSI Schaefer tote boxes. It is suitable for everything from conductive foam pads to intricate machined inserts.
Why GWP Conductive?
35+ years of experience
GWP Group has been supplying cost-effective, commercially successful solutions to a vast range of businesses for over 35 years.
UK ESD packaging specialists
We have an award-winning team of designers and packaging experts with specific, specialist knowledge of both foam and ESD performance.
Market leaders
GWP Conductive products account for more than 80% of the ESD packaging market, being specified by the majority of OEM manufacturers.
A business you can trust
GWP Conductive is now part of the UK’s largest packaging distributor, Macfarlane Group PLC, providing additional reach and reassurance.
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Quotes, technical info and advice
Speak with our conductive packaging experts
The information on this page has been collated, checked and approved by several of our conductive packaging experts:
