OCSiAl’s graphene nanotubes prevent static electricity buildup in TPU hoses

In various industries with special operating conditions, when dry bulk materials are conveyed by compressed air through a nonconductive hose, there is a risk of the accumulation of electrical charge due to friction. This can lead to sparks, resulting in damage to electronic components, or even fire or explosion.

To prevent static electricity buildup and arc discharge, conductive material enhanced with metal wire is used as the key component for the manufacture of this type of conveying hose.

Use of traditional conductive agents like carbon black requires high concentrations, which results in detrimental effects on the mechanical properties of the final product, including reduced flexibility.

OCSiAl Group offers replacement of standard compound with TPU modified with graphene nanotubes, resulting in stable, homogeneous conductivity of the final hoses, without compromising their strength or flexibility.

TPU hoses enhanced with graphene nanotubes.

“By adding only 0.4-0.5 wt% of graphene nanotubes, our client was able to obtain thermoplastic polyurethane with resistance of the order of 10 ohm/sq, allowing the hoses to meet the typical requirements of industrial norms related to electrostatic risks,” said Dr. Christian Maus, development and support leader for thermoplastics, OCSiAl Group.

"Additionally, graphene nanotubes’ low working dosages make it possible to maintain the abrasion and chemical resistance, flexibility, and non-marking properties of TPU."

The nanotube-modified hoses meet the demands of heavy-duty operating applications, which frequently require a combination of ESD protection and high abrasion resistance and durability.

Based on their high performance, these industrial TPU hoses can be widely used in pneumatic and aspiration systems for pumping or transporting materials with high abrasive properties, including abrasive powders, sawdust, chopped paper, construction waste, petroleum products, and crushed or granular materials.