Anti static bag is generally referred to as ESD (Electrical Discharge) protective films that wrap ssensitive electronic devices during transportation in order to prevent eventual static electricity damages.
The basic manufacturing material is either a resisting plastic known as PET ( the acronym for polyethylene teraphthalate) or thin polyester covering. Usually, anti static bag is coated with an aluminum film while other products are made of a single transparent plastic layer, moreover, an extra-protective type of anti static bag consists of bubble wrap materials especially designed for long-distance or eventful transports.
All types of ESD bags ensure the anti-static effect, therefore the following list of anti static wrapping products (the description is being made based on purpose criteria) are variations of anti static bag which have undergone different improvements:
Anti static bag
This is the primary ESD bags category which provides only inside protection, therefore, placing the device on the external layer, you might easily cause static damages. New products are improved items and consequently ensure a double protection both inside and outside the bag. This kind of item might not grant total control of ESD phenomena, yet the price rates are extremely convenient.
Dissipative bags
Static dissipative bags contain a dissipative film which enables controlled power dissipation. Among additional features optimizing these products we could emphasize amine-free, anti-corrosive or anti-humidity formulas. The penetration protection is another worth mentioning property as it increases the resistance feature.
Metallized bags or static shielding
The distinctive characteristic of this anti static bag is the metal film which guarantee ESD protection while producing a Faraday cage effect (maintaining the electrical charges at a controlled level). The aluminum shield might cover either the outside or inside layer.
In order to provide full protection, any anti static bag has a zip closure which allows safe transportation and easy access. Reusability is another worth pointing out factor, which is mainly enabled by the closure method and the long-lasting materials.
All types of manufacturing materials before shaping are treated with an anti static agent. These chemical agents may interfere since layer composition process has started and thus the static effect is significantly minimized or even neutralized. The second alternative is definitely less performant although the anti static agent is directly applied on the protection surface.
Providers strive to improve already existing items and the latest trend is to provide friendly environmental prototypes at the lowest price rates. If you want your PC devices to last as much as possible, inform on ESD consequences and learn the appropriate procedure and correspondent products to avoid ESD effects.