Can Ancient Methods of Grounding Protect Against Static Electricity?

[Steven Ellet]

TL;DR Summary

Get rid of static electricity without grounding strap.

I know there are straps with grounding wire(s) to protect sensitive equipment. I am trying to avoid being shocked by every doorknob I try to use. Right now I am just walking around barefoot to prevent this but that just leaves my feet cold. I have also tried using a piece of medal to reduce the pain of the shock. I am hoping for a bracelet or similar.

 

[.Scott]

Buy a humidifier. If you keep the RH over 50%, there should be no problem.
A well-known trick is to spray a fabric softener solution on your carpets.

Here's a link with ideas: https://dengarden.com/cleaning/How-to-Remove-Static-From-Your-Home

 

[Baluncore]

The problem is the synthetic soles on your shoes are very good insulators. You only need to modify one sole to be more conductive.

Take a fine carbon fibre thread and a sewing needle. Push or punch it from under the shoe to come out inside the shoe, (when you are not wearing it). The fibre will brush the floor and discharge you as you walk. You could use thick metal wire to test the concept first. I use carbon fibre because it is flexible, so it will not fracture, and it is resistive which reduces the chance I will be hurt by a real electric shock via my leg to ground later.

Or; take a few drops of dilute glycol antifreeze, as used for coolant in cars. Paint it on the side of the synthetic sole of your shoe so it forms a track from the floor to the stitching, across the synthetic sole material. That will remain moist by drawing water from the air, and so will discharge you at every step, long before you touch the door handle.

 

[berkeman]

Take a fine carbon fibre thread and a sewing needle. Push or punch it from under the shoe to come out inside the shoe, (when you are not wearing it). The fibre will brush the floor and discharge you as you walk.

Very cool DIY, Baluncore!

@Steven Ellet -- Here is a standard product that you can use instead to help discharge your body through your feet (very inexpensive):

https://www.ultrastatinc.com/ESD_Wrist_Straps_FAQ.html

 

[hutchphd]

I'm trying not to suggest dragging a chain like Marley's ghost. More in keeping with the season than Carbon fiber! Perhaps heavier.

 

[Averagesupernova]

I've worked in settings with a conductive finish on the floor and attachments that fit on and in a persons shoe to maintain conduction to the floor. Saved us from wearing an ESD wrist strap. I eventually preferred the wrist strap.

 

[Baluncore]

I'm trying not to suggest dragging a chain like Marley's ghost. More in keeping with the season than Carbon fiber! Perhaps heavier.

In Van Diemen's Land they traditionally attached a large iron ball to the ankle with a chain, in an attempt to keep the gang well grounded. That may epigenetically explain why many Tasmanians are so afraid of lightning.

The first electrical distribution switchboard at Port Arthur was assembled on a slab of slate as the insulator. It went to scrap over 50 years ago, for the copper and brass, but the slab is handed on by those who still appreciate the electrical stone age. It now leans against my house, where it was placed by the previous custodian.