In modern industry, static electricity poses a significant ignition risk. In environments where flammable gases, vapors or dusts are present, even a small electrostatic spark can be enough to trigger a devastating explosion.

This brochure provides an overview of the explosion hazards and the mechanisms of electrostatic charges and discharges. The formation of electrostatic charges through charge separation, the accumulation of charges and their dissipation are central topics that are dealt with in detail. Different types of discharge and their ignition effectiveness are presented in order to convey an understanding of the potential hazards.