Static Eliminators

Of all the membrane disc filter accessories that we carry, the static eliminator probably gets the most technical questions. Whereas items like the cytoclear glass slides and stainless steel membrane filter tweezers are very straightforward in their purpose and operation, how a static eliminator works may not be as intuitive. Static eliminators are used on Polycarbonate or Polyester membranes when they are going to be subject to precise analytical balance measurements that could be affected by the presence of static or dust particles on the filter. Static eliminators can perform this function in a few different ways, such as by using alternating current or by using small amounts of a radioactive element to remove electrons. The static eliminators that we carry use a naturally occurring radioactive element called Polonium-210 (It was discovered by Marie and Pierre Curie and named after Marie Curie’s homeland of Poland) in order to function. This type of static eliminator is referred to as an alpha ionizer since it emits alpha particles (Helium in this case) which create an intrinsically balanced output of positive and negative ions to remove the static charge. The reason our static eliminators utilize this method is because alpha ionizers don’t require an electrical power supply, which is more convenient and safer for volatile environments. Now even though we mentioned that our static eliminators contain this radioactive material (and that said material was discovered by Marie Curie), this item poses no health risk, as the alpha particles will not pass through the skin and the element is sealed. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, “Po-210 [Polonium-210] is not a concern and Po-210 does not represent a risk to human health as long as Po-210 remains outside the body.” Since the alpha particles can only travel a few centimeters and they are easily blocked by the skin or even a sheet of paper, safety concerns are minimal. Furthermore, the static eliminators we carry are manufactured and distributed in accordance with the provisions provided by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, so you can use them without worry!