Electrostatic discharge charge transfer measurements in electrostatic hazard evaluation

Abstract

Ignition risk is often evaluated using the charged transferred in a discharge from the object or material under evaluation. Charge transfer measurements can also be used to evaluate the capacitance of small conducting items that can be otherwise difficult to measure. The paper reviews methods of charge transfer measurement in electrostatic discharge often used for capacitance measurement or electrostatic hazard evaluation. Advantages and disadvantages of each method are discussed. Examples documents that specify or rely on charge transfer measurements include IEC 60079-32-1, IEC 60079-32-2, ISO 80079-36 and EN 50050-1.