The problem

Polypropylene (PP) bins are widely used in electronics manufacturing and warehousing due to their strength, low cost, and ease of handling. However, standard PP is electrically insulating and readily accumulates static charge during movement, loading, and unloading.

Conventional ESD-safe bins rely on carbon-filled plastics, which often become brittle, crack under load, or lose ESD performance as the material ages and wears.

The substrate

Injection-moulded polypropylene bins with smooth and textured surfaces, commonly used for WIP storage, kitting, and material transfer.

Why replacement was not viable

• High cost of carbon-filled ESD bins compared to standard PP bins
• Limited durability and cracking issues with conductive plastics
• Large installed base of existing bins across facilities
• Sustainability goals favouring reuse over disposal

The ProShieldESD solution

ProShieldESD was applied as a thin, uniform coating to the external and internal surfaces of polypropylene bins. The two-part coating adheres strongly to PP and forms a continuous, controlled ESD surface.

The coating does not significantly alter bin dimensions or stacking behaviour and remains effective independent of ambient humidity.

Performance outcome

• Surface resistance maintained within the ESD dissipative range
• Uniform charge dissipation across all bin surfaces
• No cracking or brittleness associated with carbon-filled plastics
• Stable performance under repeated handling and load cycles

Standards alignment

The ESD-coated bins support ESD control programs aligned with IEC 61340 and ANSI/ESD S20.20 requirements when integrated into a grounded handling system.

Key benefits

• Extends usable life of existing PP bins
• Reduces dependency on brittle conductive plastics
• Supports sustainability and reuse initiatives
• Easy to repair or recoat if surfaces are damaged