Protected view of the stars
StoCretec: ESD and explosion protection for Einstein Telescope
Light years away and be protected from a speck of dust on earth: To ensure that the highly sensitive technology of the ‘Einstein Telescope’ is not damaged by electrostatic discharges or minimal soiling, it stands on an ESD floor (StoFloor ESD KU 611). The University of Maastricht wants to use the new state-of-the-art facility to uncover the secret of gravitational waves.
Under the name ETpathfinder, Maastricht University is running a research and development project with the aim of measuring and analysing gravitational waves. ET stands for ‘Einstein Telescope’ - the first of its kind in a new class of future observatories. Put simply, ET captures signals that are produced when stars and black holes collide in the universe. This sensitive technology requires a high-quality ground coating. It is important to protect against electrostatic discharges and to avoid electrostatic potentials, as these attract particles (e.g. dust). Otherwise there is a risk of damage or contamination to the sensitive components. The laboratory hall is therefore designed as a clean room. The client's team of experts chose an electrically conductive thick coating system for the floor. StoFloor ESD KU 611 ensures that generated charges are discharged into the ground.
ESD- and explosion protection flooring
The StoFloor ESD KU 611 system structure selected here with the StoPox WL 110 conductive layer and the StoPur WV 210 matt sealant fulfils the requirements for ESD protection in accordance with DIN EN 61340-5-1 and explosion protection in accordance with TRGS 727. Its surface has good mechanical resistance and can be driven on with Vulkollan or solid rubber tyres, meaning that it can be transported without any problems. The ESD system is also low-emission and can be easily decontaminated. The slip resistance is neutrally confirmed by test certificates, and the manufacturer also voluntarily has the products externally monitored.
Construction panel
Construction panel: ET-Pathfinder Laboratory, Maastricht
ESD floor coating for research facility
Building owner: Maastricht University, Maastricht, NL
Planner: Jansen Cleanrooms, Jansen Group, Oudsbergen, BE
Applicator: Art Tech Beton bvba, Neufvilles, BE
Construction time: 10/2023
StoCretec expertise: StoFloor ESD KU 611
Electrically conductive coating system
Primer StoPox GH 205
Levelling coat StoPox GH 205
Conductive strip StoDivers LB 100
Conductive layer StoPox WL 110
Coating StoPox KU 611
Sealing StoPur WV 210
Heavy waves, sensitive technology: The ET-Pathfinder gravitational wave observatory with the Einstein Telescope in Maastricht must be protected from electrical voltages, which is why the laboratory has an ESD floor (StoFloor ESD KU 611). This fulfils both EN 1504-2 (surface protection systems for concrete) and EN 13813 (screed mortar). With its high colour stability, it also ensures permanently attractive floors.
Image: MVL Media Group / StoCretec
Heavy waves, sensitive technology: The ET-Pathfinder gravitational wave observatory with the Einstein Telescope in Maastricht must be protected from electrical voltages, which is why the laboratory has an ESD floor (StoFloor ESD KU 611). This fulfils both EN 1504-2 (surface protection systems for concrete) and EN 13813 (screed mortar). With its high colour stability, it also ensures permanently attractive floors.
Image: MVL Media Group / StoCretec
Heavy waves, sensitive technology: The ET-Pathfinder gravitational wave observatory with the Einstein Telescope in Maastricht must be protected from electrical voltages, which is why the laboratory has an ESD floor (StoFloor ESD KU 611). This fulfils both EN 1504-2 (surface protection systems for concrete) and EN 13813 (screed mortar). With its high colour stability, it also ensures permanently attractive floors.
Image: MVL Media Group / StoCretec
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