What is static electricity?

In carpeted buildings the friction created by the rubbing of shoe soles
on carpet fibres creates static electricity. The friction causes  electrons
to transfer from the carpet surface to the body, where they accumulate. 
When the body touches a good electrical conductor, e.g. a metal doorknob, the accumulated electrons rapidly flow from the body to the conductor. It is this sudden discharge that results in an electrical shock. 

The conditions which create static electricity in a carpet are:-

1. A dry atmosphere. As it is the moisture in the atmosphere that makes the air conductive it is 
beneficial to keep humidity levels higher.

2. A non-conductive carpet fibre will allow electrons to pool on the carpet surface ready for transfer to
shoe soles. In a conductive carpet these electrons are dissipated away immediately.

With modern buildings containing "climate control systems" and extensive air conditioning, static electricity
in carpeting can be a year round problem. In buildings containing computer systems and other sophisticated
electronic equipment, the problem becomes more acute. Some computers will "react" to a static charge as 
low as 500 volts.

How can you control static electricity

1. Use a conductive carpet fibre/construction. Many man made carpets are produced today which 
contain a conductive carbon element. This carbon element improves the conductivity of the carpet. 

2. Control humidity levels. Increase the humidity level of affected areas to make the air more conductive. A humidity level of 45% is the best guarantee of low static buildup. However this can result
in condensation problems.

3. Apply Designcare's  anti static chemical.  Designcare has solved the static  problem by using a 
chemical spray which is applied to the carpet to make it more conductive. The chemical contains microscopic metallic material which attaches itself to the carpet fibre and not only dissipates static electricity but also improves the soil retardancy of the carpet. This allows the anti-static  properties 
to last longer than ever thought possible

How is the anti static applied

Designcare's anti static chemical is applied, to either new or freshly cleaned carpet, using an electric spray 
unit. This ensures that an even measured quantity of chemical is applied to the carpet. After the chemical is
sprayed on to the carpet it takes about 1- 2 hours to dry. The anti static benefits of the chemical application should be immediately noticeable.

Please call 0208-964-2266 or e-mail for prices