History
Pink ESD foam has been a staple in the ESD packaging world since its inception back in the 70’s. It is a great product that fulfills many needs in many applications. Typically used as a cushioning aspect of a package or work surface, pink foam has been a “solution” for many problems. However, there has been a misconception of the anti-static properties and how long they last. Pink anti static foams have a shelf life. Once that shelf life is gone the foam can become extremely dangerous to the manufacturing environment and sensitive components. When walking through an EPA (ESD Protected Area) the most common violation of standard ESD practices is the use, or misuse of these foams.
ANSI/ESD S541 tells us in 6.1 and 6.2 as it relates to ANSI/ESD S20.20 that packaging (in this case pink foam) used inside and outside an EPA must have certain characteristics.
