There are many variables that contribute to static electricity in individuals. Weight, walking habits, and the type of soles on your shoes are all contributing factors. Other contributing factors are the construction of the carpet, the backing, type of underlay, the kind of floor, the cleanliness of the carpet and the amount of moisture in the air.
Carpet can help in the build up of static electricity. Just from walking across a carpeted floor, you can give someone or yourself quite a shock. When you walk across the carpet, the friction from each step you take builds up in your body and you can eventually build up to 20,000 volt, shocking for your family and friends with a friendly touch. In a darkened room you can actually see the discharge of electricity in the form of a blue light. However, humidity is the biggest factor in the creation of static electricity.
Static electricity can cause harm to electrical appliances such as televisions and computers. The static electric charge can even ruin a computer. There are simple things you can do to reduce the amount of static charge that builds on your body.
The term antistatic electricity refers to a condition where static generation is inhibited during contact and separation with a different material. In general, antistatic carpet is any carpet that will generate less static electricity than standard carpet. Antistatic carpet is not conductive but it is not possible to ground anti-static carpet. Antistatic carpet usually contains bi-component yarns. The reason for specifying antistatic carpet is to establish a space that will be free of static shocks, or zaps. Most new antistatic carpet will prevent shocks as long as the relative humidity (RH) is above 25%. Anti static carpet should NOT be confused with conductive or ESD carpet. Antistatic is not a permanent property.
During periods of low humidity, static electricity can be generated simply by walking across a carpet or other surfaces. While you will find this irritating, it does not mean that the floor covering is defective. The generation of this condition can be reduced or eliminated. This reduction can be accomplished by having a carpet treated with anti static products approved for the carpet during the manufacturing process or applied after.
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