Resistivity (specific electrical resistance) is a key parameter in electronics and electrical engineering that determines how well a material conducts electricity. It plays a crucial role in both the chemical and electronics industries, affecting insulation quality, system efficiency, and device safety. In this article, we will explain what resistivity is, why it matters in practice, and how it influences our products.
What is resistivity?
Resistivity (denoted by ρ and measured in ohm-meters – Ω·m) is a measure of a material’s electrical resistance per unit volume. In simple terms, it describes how difficult it is for electrical current to flow through a material.
Formula for resistivity
Resistivity can be calculated using the formula:
Where:
- R – electrical resistance (Ω)
- A – cross-sectional area of the conductor (m²)
- l – length of the conductor (m)
The higher the resistivity, the better the material acts as an insulator. The lower the resistivity, the better it conducts electricity.
Why is resistivity important in electronics and the chemical industry?
Resistivity impacts various aspects of electronic devices and systems. It is important in areas such as:
1. Protecting electronics from short circuits and damage
High-resist materials are used as insulators to prevent unintended current flow and protect circuits.
At AG TermoPasty, we implement this technology in our silicone and epoxy potting compounds as well as PVB coatings, which shield integrated circuits from overvoltage and environmental conditions.
2. Thermal pastes – Safety in application
Some thermal pastes can conduct electricity, posing a risk to electronic components. Our silicone-based thermal pastes from the H-series have high resist, meaning they do not cause short circuits on PCBs and are safe for industrial and DIY applications.
3. Electronics maintenance products
Certain cleaning agents may leave behind residues with low resistivity, increasing the risk of unintended electrical conductivity. Our products, Kontakt PCB PLUS and Kontakt S, are designed to effectively remove contaminants while ensuring high electrical resistance.
4. Technical petroleum jelly as an insulator
Our Technical petroleum jelly is an example of a product with very high resist. It is used to protect electrical contacts, wires, and connections from corrosion and moisture, minimizing the risk of unintended current flow.
Conclusion
Resistivity is a key parameter in electronics and technical chemistry that impacts safety, performance, and device longevity. We ensure that our products – from thermal pastes to cleaning solutions – have the right insulating properties and do not cause unwanted side effects.
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