Electrostatic discharge shielding test service

Electrostatic Discharge Shielding Test Service – Accredited Evaluation of ESD Protective Packaging, Materials, and Components

For Brazilian manufacturers, importers, and quality engineers in the electronics, automotive, medical device, and telecommunications sectors, protecting sensitive electronic components from electrostatic discharge (ESD) is a critical reliability and quality assurance requirement. ESD shielding materials – including bags, trays, films, foams, and coatings – are designed to prevent static charges from reaching, damaging, or destroying electronic devices during storage, handling, and transport. However, the effectiveness of these materials depends on their ability to attenuate the discharge energy, dissipate static charge, and maintain a Faraday cage effect. Our ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory offers a specialised electrostatic discharge shielding test service that quantifies the shielding effectiveness, surface resistance, volume resistivity, and discharge decay time of ESD protective materials, in full compliance with IEC 61340‑5‑1, ANSI/ESD S20.20, ESD S11.11, ESD STM11.31, and their Brazilian adoptions (ABNT NBR IEC 61340). With decades of experience in materials characterisation and ESD control, we provide precise, repeatable, and fully documented test results that are accepted by INMETRO, ANATEL, and leading electronics manufacturers in Brazil, supporting your product approval, supply chain quality, and compliance with international ESD standards.

Materials and Products We Regularly Test

We accept a wide range of ESD shielding materials and products, from flexible films and rigid trays to foam liners and anti‑static garments. Our test setups are adaptable to different specimen geometries and sizes, and we can evaluate both raw materials and finished packaging designs. Common samples include:

• ESD shielding bags and pouches – metal‑in, metal‑out, and static‑dissipative bags for electronic components.
• Anti‑static and conductive trays – for component storage and shipping.
• ESD shielding films and laminates – for wrapping and covering sensitive assemblies.
• Conductive and static‑dissipative foams – used in packaging to cushion and protect PCBs.
• ESD coatings and paints – applied to enclosures, workstations, and flooring.
• Anti‑static tapes, labels, and adhesive films – for use in ESD‑protected areas.
• ESD garments and gloves – for personnel working with sensitive components.
• Shipping containers and tote boxes – with ESD protective properties.

Core Test Methods – Shielding Effectiveness and Electrical Properties

Our electrostatic discharge shielding test service uses the most recognised international methods to characterise the protective performance of ESD materials. The tests are designed to measure both the shielding capability against external discharges and the material’s ability to dissipate its own charge. All tests follow the standards of the ESD Association (ESDA), the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), and the relevant Brazilian technical standards:

• Surface resistance measurement (ESD S11.11, IEC 61340‑2‑3, ABNT NBR IEC 61340‑2‑3) – We measure the surface resistance of flat specimens using a concentric ring probe or a parallel electrode configuration, applying a defined voltage (typically 10 V, 100 V, or 500 V). The result is expressed in ohms per square (Ω/□) or ohms (Ω). Materials are classified as insulating (>10¹² Ω), static‑dissipative (10⁶‑10¹² Ω), conductive (10³‑10⁶ Ω), or highly conductive (<10³ Ω), according to the ESD classification. This measurement is fundamental for determining the material’s ability to dissipate charge.
• Volume resistivity measurement (ESD S11.12, IEC 61340‑2‑3) – We measure the resistance through the thickness of the material using a three‑electrode system, applying a controlled voltage and measuring the current. The volume resistivity (in Ω·cm) is calculated, and it indicates the bulk conductivity of the material, which is important for evaluating the performance of trays and foams.
• Static decay test (ESD S11.11, IEC 61340‑2‑3, and Federal Test Method 101C) – We charge the specimen to a defined voltage (e.g., 5 kV) using a high‑voltage source, then monitor the voltage decay over time as the charge dissipates through the material. The time required for the voltage to drop to a specified fraction (e.g., 10% or 1%) of the initial value is recorded. A short decay time (< 0.5 s or < 2 s, depending on the standard) indicates good static‑dissipative performance.
• ESD shielding effectiveness – charge voltage measurement (ESD STM11.31, IEC 61340‑4‑8) – We place the shielding material (e.g., a bag or pouch) over a charged plate (or a metal coupon) and then apply a discharge from an ESD simulator (contact discharge at 2 kV or 4 kV). We measure the voltage induced on the inner metal plate using a high‑impedance voltmeter. The shielding effectiveness is expressed as the ratio of the induced voltage to the applied discharge voltage. A successful ESD shield will attenuate the discharge energy to a very low level, typically less than 30 V or 50 V, depending on the required protection level (e.g., for sensitive components with a human body model (HBM) rating).
• Point‑to‑point resistance and grounding resistance (ESD S4.1, IEC 61340‑5‑1) – For floor mats, work surfaces, and footwear, we measure the resistance between two electrodes placed on the surface, and the resistance from the surface to the grounding point. This ensures that the material provides a safe path to earth, preventing electrostatic build‑up on personnel and equipment.
• Charge dissipation and shielding effectiveness under humidity cycling – we test the material’s performance at different relative humidity levels (e.g., 12%, 25%, 50%, 90% RH) to evaluate the effect of moisture on the electrical properties – This is particularly important for materials used in tropical climates, such as Brazil, where humidity can significantly affect static dissipation and shielding effectiveness.
• Mechanical wear and abrasion resistance – we subject the material to a defined number of wear cycles (e.g., 100 or 500 cycles) using a standard abrasion tester, and then re‑measure the surface resistance and shielding effectiveness – This evaluates the durability of the ESD properties, which is essential for packaging that will be reused or handled frequently.
• Temperature conditioning – we expose the specimens to elevated temperatures (e.g., 60°C, 70°C) and sub‑zero temperatures (-20°C, -40°C) for a defined period, and then perform the electrical tests to assess the stability of the ESD properties under thermal stress – This is particularly important for automotive and aerospace applications.

Evaluation Criteria and Interpretation of Results

Based on the measured data, our specialists evaluate whether the material meets the required ESD protection level and provide a clear classification. The interpretation includes:

• Classification of the material – based on surface resistance, we classify the material as insulating, static‑dissipative, conductive, or highly conductive – This classification is used to select materials for specific ESD control areas (EPA) and product applications.
• Determination of the shielding level – based on the induced voltage measurement, we determine if the material provides the required shielding effectiveness (e.g., < 30 V, < 50 V, < 100 V) for the protection of the sensitive components – This is critical for components with low ESD susceptibility, such as integrated circuits (ICs), microprocessors, and MOSFETs.
• Pass/fail determination – we compare the measured values with the specified requirements (e.g., surface resistance, decay time, shielding voltage) and issue a clear pass/fail conclusion – We also provide a detailed explanation of the results and any recommended actions.
• Recommendations for improvement – if the material fails to meet the required performance, we suggest modifications to the material composition, the design, or the production process – This may involve adding conductive fillers, increasing the conductive layer thickness, or using a different polymer matrix.
• Compliance with ESD standards – we verify that the material satisfies the requirements of the relevant ESD standards, such as IEC 61340‑5‑1, ANSI/ESD S20.20, and ABNT NBR IEC 61340‑5‑1 – This is essential for suppliers to electronics manufacturers who require ESD‑compliant packaging.

Environmental and Operational Conditioning

ESD shielding properties are highly dependent on environmental conditions, especially temperature and humidity. We offer tests under controlled conditioning to simulate the real‑world conditions of storage and transport:

• Humidity conditioning – we perform the electrical tests at different relative humidity levels (e.g., 12%, 25%, 50%, 90% RH) to evaluate the material’s performance under both dry and humid conditions – This is essential for products that will be used in tropical and coastal areas of Brazil.
• Temperature conditioning – we expose the material to elevated (60°C) and low (-40°C) temperatures and then measure the electrical properties to evaluate the effect of temperature on the shielding performance – This is particularly relevant for automotive and outdoor equipment.
• Abrasion and wear conditioning – we simulate the mechanical wear that occurs during storage and handling and re‑test the material to ensure that the ESD properties remain intact – This ensures that the packaging continues to provide protection after repeated use.
• Chemical resistance – we expose the material to common chemicals (e.g., isopropyl alcohol, detergents, oils) that may come into contact with the packaging during use, and then re‑test the electrical properties – This is important for cleaning and maintenance procedures in the factory.

Calibration, Traceability, and Quality Assurance

All ESD shielding tests are performed under our ISO/IEC 17025 accredited quality system, with full traceability of voltage, resistance, and time measurements:

• Calibration of the surface resistance meter, megohmmeter, and high‑voltage source – using certified resistors and voltage standards traceable to Inmetro – The measurement uncertainty is < 1% for resistance and < 1% for voltage.
• Calibration of the ESD simulator – using a calibrated high‑voltage probe and oscilloscope to verify the discharge voltage and the waveform – The uncertainty is < 5% for the discharge voltage.
• Calibration of the charge plate monitor – using a calibrated voltmeter and a known charge voltage – The uncertainty is < 2% for the voltage.
• Verification with reference materials – we test a set of reference materials (e.g., a known static‑dissipative plastic, a certified shielding bag) at regular intervals to confirm the stability and reproducibility of the test system – The results are monitored on control charts.
• Interlaboratory comparisons – we participate in proficiency testing schemes for ESD testing – Our results are periodically validated against other accredited laboratories.

Compliance with Brazilian and International Standards

Our ESD shielding testing services support compliance with the key standards and regulations for ESD control in Brazil:

• ABNT NBR IEC 61340‑5‑1 (Protection of electronic devices from electrostatic phenomena – General requirements) – This is the main Brazilian standard for ESD control programmes, and our tests are performed according to its requirements.
• ANSI/ESD S20.20 (Protection of Electrical and Electronic Parts, Assemblies and Equipment) – The most widely used US standard for ESD control, often referenced in Brazilian electronics supply chains.
• ESD S11.11 (Surface Resistance Measurement of Static Dissipative Planar Materials) – Used to characterise the dissipative properties of materials.
• ESD STM11.31 (Evaluating the Performance of Shielding Bags) – The specific standard for testing the shielding effectiveness of packaging materials.
• IEC 61340‑4‑8 (Evaluation of electrostatic discharges – Test methods for shielding bags) – The international equivalent of STM11.31, used in Europe and many multinational companies.
• INMETRO Portarias and quality requirements for electronics and medical devices – Many Brazilian regulations require ESD protection as part of the product quality and safety assessment.
• Customer specifications – we can adapt our test procedures to meet the specific ESD requirements of automotive OEMs, medical device manufacturers, and electronics assemblers in Brazil – Our reports are accepted by major electronics buyers.

Reporting and Accreditation

All ESD shielding tests are performed under our ISO/IEC 17025 accredited quality system, with full traceability of all measurement parameters. Our Inmetro‑accredited reports are recognised by INMETRO, ANATEL, and various Brazilian certification bodies. Each report includes:

• A complete description of the test specimen (material, thickness, area, conditioning).
• Test conditions (temperature, humidity, voltage level, electrode geometry).
• Measured values for surface resistance, volume resistivity, decay time, and shielding effectiveness (induced voltage).
• Classification of the material according to the ESD categories (insulating, dissipative, conductive).
• Pass/fail determination against the specified requirements.
• Calibration certificates for all test equipment and measurement uncertainty statements.
• Recommendations for material improvement or alternative solutions, if necessary.

Our reports provide the confidence you need to certify your ESD packaging, approve suppliers, and ensure that your sensitive electronic products are adequately protected from electrostatic discharge.

Why Choose Our Electrostatic Discharge Shielding Test Service?

We understand that electrostatic discharge is a silent but significant threat to the reliability of electronic components and assemblies. An ESD‑shielded packaging that fails to provide adequate protection can lead to latent failures, field returns, and loss of customer confidence. Our team offers rapid turnaround, flexible test programmes (from material screening to full compliance certification), and clear, actionable interpretation of results – we do not just provide numbers; we explain the performance of your material in the context of the ESD control programme and offer practical recommendations for improvement. We work closely with your packaging engineers, quality managers, and ESD coordinators to tailor the test plan to your specific material types, protection requirements, and operating conditions. With state‑of‑the‑art measurement equipment, traceable calibrations, and a highly experienced team, our electrostatic discharge shielding test service delivers the accuracy, repeatability, and regulatory acceptance you need to protect your valuable electronics. Contact us to discuss your shielding materials and protective needs – we will design a customised test programme that ensures your ESD packaging meets the highest standards of the industry.