ESD protection in cleanroom environments focuses on the controlled dissipation of static electricity to prevent electrostatic discharge, which can damage sensitive electronic components or disrupt critical processes. Even low-level discharges may cause latent defects, product failures, or reduced yield in electronics and semiconductor manufacturing.

ESD cleanroom garments are designed to safely dissipate electrostatic charges generated by operator movement, while maintaining full cleanroom compatibility. By controlling static build-up, these garments help protect sensitive components, support process stability, and ensure compliance with ESD and contamination-control requirements.

IEC 61340 is a series of international standards that defines requirements for electrostatic control in electronics manufacturing environments. For ESD garments specifically, IEC 61340-5-1 sets the requirements for garments used in electrostatic protected areas (EPAs), including surface resistance limits and charge dissipation performance. 

Garments tested and validated to IEC 61340 provide documented assurance that they will safely dissipate static charges under real-world conditions. All alsico ALSISTAT fabrics are tested in accordance with IEC 61340.

ESD garment testing typically includes surface resistance measurements (point-to-point and sleeve-to-sleeve), which verify that conductive fibres maintain electrical continuity across all panels and seams. Charge decay testing measures how quickly a garment dissipates static charge after contact. These tests are performed on new garments and repeated at defined intervals throughout the garment lifecycle, as fabric conductivity can change with washing and wear. At alsico, our in-house laboratory performs these tests alongside particle emission and filtration efficiency testing to ensure garments meet both ESD and contamination control requirements.

ESD protection is crucial because static electricity can damage sensitive electronic components, ignite flammable substances, and attract particles that compromise cleanroom processes. By safely dissipating electrostatic charges, ESD garments help prevent product defects, maintain process reliability, reduce contamination risks, and ensure compliance with cleanroom standards.

ESD garments are made from specialized fabrics that safely dissipate static electricity. They usually combine soft, breathable materials with conductive yarns, providing protection for sensitive equipment while remaining comfortable and durable for cleanroom use.