Testing the electrostatic characteristics of polypropylene fabric with metallic yarns, intended for use in coal mines threatened by the explosion hazard. Part 1: Laboratory tests

The aim of this paper was to assess electrostatic safety of polypropylene fabric with metallic yarns intended for use in coal mines. Such fabrics have not been used in the Polish mining industry yet. The tests conducted have been divided into two subgroups: laboratory tests and tests in a coal mine. This paper presents the results of laboratory tests, which comprise charge transfer tests, impact of washing and mechanical stress on the resistance and resistance-to-ground at the manufacturer's site. Some problems with measuring the resistance are highlighted and discussed. The results obtained allow a reliable assessment to be made of the risk of using fabrics with metallic yarns in the explosive atmosphere, which often occurs in coal mines.