Standard ABS
- Lower cost
- Insulating
- Full color range
Conductive and Antistatic Plastics for Injection Molding
Conductive and Antistatic Plastics for Injection Molding
Electronics housings and trays sometimes need antistatic or conductive compounds using carbon black, carbon fiber, or stainless steel fibers.
Conductive and Antistatic Plastics for Injection Molding
ESD compounds are grade-specific
Surface resistivity targets belong on the BOM with the supplier grade, not as a molder guarantee.
Electronics housings and trays sometimes need antistatic or conductive compounds using carbon black, carbon fiber, or stainless steel fibers.
ESD protection differs from EMI shielding; each needs different test methods and supplier documentation.
NetProto molds the compound you specify; resistivity validation stays with your test plan and resin supplier data.
When to specify it
ESD compound checklist
Use this on RFQs and BOMs before you lock a filled grade.
State ESD vs structural conductive intent.
Write supplier grade or resistivity target as a filter.
Note color constraints (many ESD grades are black).
Separate EMI shielding coatings if also required.
Trade-offs
Fillers for conductivity
Qualitative matrix. Confirm numbers on the supplier datasheet.
| Filler | Typical use | Buyer note |
|---|---|---|
| Carbon black | ESD trays and housings | Color usually black |
| Stainless fiber | Higher conductivity routes | Wear on tooling may rise |
| Carbon fiber (structural) | Not the same as ESD MB | Do not mix requirements |
Routing
ESD vs standard ABS
Only specify when the program needs it.
Conductive compound
- ESD path
- Supplier grade required
- Validate with your test plan
RFQ
What to write on the purchase order
Clear resin callouts reduce quote iterations and T1 surprises.
- 1
Write ESD or conductive
Use the term your compliance team defines.
- 2
Link conductive compounds page
See filled material guide.
- 3
Do not claim EMI shield
Shielding may need coatings or metal mesh.
- 4
T1 verify resistivity
Use your lab method on molded samples.
FAQ
FAQ
Does conductive ABS guarantee ESD safe?
Only when the grade and your test method align; verify on parts.
Can ESD be any color?
Most carbon-based systems are black or dark gray.
Stainless fiber and rust?
Specify corrosion context for the full assembly.
Related guides
Materials, comparisons, and risks
Internal links only render in cards and CTA blocks.
Conductive compounds
Material spoke.
Conductive compoundsPBT connectors
Electrical housing resin.
PBT connectorsMaterials library
Resin family guides.
Materials libraryReading a datasheet
Decode supplier TDS fields.
Reading a datasheetNext step
Get a quote with your resin specified
Upload CAD and list fill level, color, and flame filter on the instant quote platform.