Product

Antistatic additives

Achieve reliable static control without compromising the performance of your films or foams.

What are antistatic additives?

Antistatic additives are processing aids used in polyolefin manufacturing to reduce the build-up of electrostatic charge on finished films and moulded parts.

The additive moves to the surface of the polymer after processing, where it forms a thin layer that attracts moisture from the surrounding atmosphere, which dissipates the static charge.

The two main categories are short-term antistats, which deliver rapid static control, and long-term antistats, which provide sustained performance for a longer period.

Both types can be incorporated via masterbatch or during the compounding step.

What are antistatic additives used for?

Static charge is a practical problem in polyolefin film manufacturing. It causes film layers to cling together, attracts dust and debris, and creates handling difficulties on high-speed processing and packaging lines, all of which can affect product quality and production efficiency.

In PP and BOPP film applications, antistats are a standard part of the additive package. You’ll find them used across packaging film, agricultural film and industrial wrapping, where surface hygiene and reliable separation are vital throughout the product’s life.

In PE and PP foam applications, some antistat grades also help to create a stable, uniform cell structure, giving you a dual functional benefit in a single additive.

And for moulded thermoplastic parts, the layer the additive forms at the polymer surface reduces adhesion between the componntent and the mould wall, making parts easier to eject. Certain grades also help prevent static-related quality issues on the finished surface.

Key benefits: antistatic additives

Rapid static control

Short-term antistatic additives work quickly. Their rapid activation makes them particularly useful in film applications where antistatic protection needs to be present early in the production or packing process.

Synergistic performance

Pairing a short-term antistat with a long-term grade gives you a complete solution. The short-term additive handles immediate static control, while the long-term antistat continues to renew the surface layer over time.

Compatibility

Certain antistat grades are specifically designed to deliver antistatic properties through surface migration without adversely affecting the coefficient of friction (CoF).

Thermal stability

Some antistat grades offer significantly higher thermal stability than standard amine-based antistats, which translates to more reliable and consistent performance in the finished film.

Multifunctional

In PE and PP foam formulations, certain antistat grades contribute to uniform cell structure and offer balanced lubrication to support consistent foam quality.

Why source your antistatic additives from MegaChem?

At MegaChem UK, we work with a carefully selected network of manufacturers to supply antistatic additives that are consistent, well-documented and technically well-supported. So, when you’re trying to resolve a static issue or optimise an existing formulation, you’ll talk to people who can engage with the detail of your application to help you make the right choices.

We can support you with technical data sheets, SDS documentation and regulatory information, and we hold stock in multiple grades and formats to suit different production volumes.

If you’re evaluating your options for a new formulation or reviewing your current supplier, we’re a straightforward partner to work with.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between short-term and long-term antistatic additives?

Short-term antistats work quickly. They migrate to the polymer surface soon after processing and deliver rapid static control. Long-term antistats renew the surface layer over time, providing sustained performance throughout the product’s life. For PP and BOPP film, the two types are often used in combination to cover the immediate and ongoing antistatic requirements.

What are the typical use levels for antistatic additives?

For PP, PE and BOPP films, typical loading levels are in the range of 0.5% to 1.0%, depending on the specific grade and end-use requirements. For PE and PP foam applications, higher loadings of 1.0% to 1.5% are more common. The right level for your application is best confirmed through testing, as formulation variables can influence the result.

Will antistatic additives affect the slip performance of my film?

This depends on the grade. Some antistatic additives are specifically formulated to provide antistatic properties through surface migration without adversely affecting your CoF values, making them suitable for applications where both properties are important. We’d recommend confirming this with technical data or a trial if slip performance is a key consideration.

How are antistatic additives incorporated?

The most common method is via masterbatch, which gives you consistent, well-dispersed additive distribution throughout the polymer matrix. Direct addition during the compounding step is also an option, depending on your process.

What should I be aware of when storing antistatic additives?

Some antistat grades can form soft agglomerates during transit or storage, particularly in finer particle sizes. This is a normal characteristic and doesn’t affect product performance. The agglomerates break up easily before use. The product should be stored in closed containers in its original packaging and kept away from exposure to air. Shelf life is typically six months under standard storage conditions.

Talk to us about your antistatic requirements

If you’re specifying antistatic additives for a new application or reviewing your current supply, our team is happy to help. Get in touch to discuss grades, pack sizes and availability, or request a sample to evaluate in your processes.