This is a type of paint that forms electrically-conductive coating films, which are used in various applications, including electromagnetic shielding, radio-wave shielding, prevention of static charge or surface contamination, and for electronic devices.

The trend of making electrical devices more compact and slim, increasing the density of frequency distribution of electromagnetic energy, and growing use of plastic materials requires more effective shielding technology of electromagnetic waves in a comprehensive manner. Electromagnetic wave shielding (EMI shielding) paints are now attracting attention.

To be able to shield electromagnetic waves effectively, it is necessary to consider various measures, such as chassis shielding and designing, the grounding method, noise filter application, wire separation, and circuit design, in an integrated fashion.
[Table 1] is a brief summary of paints with electrical properties.

[Table 1] Paints with electrical properties

Conductive paints are largely classified into the genuine type (polymeric derivatives utilized) and the dispersion type (conductive filler dispersed).
The applications include EMI and RFI shielding, packaging, electronics, and electrode material fields, etc.
They are also used in the transparent conductive film field.

Conductive packaging materials were developed as the packing materials designed to prevent electrostatic hazards. The conduction technology to coat materials with electrically-conductive paints is now attracting attention.
The factors to consider include the carbon addition rate vs. conductivity, kneading vs. conductivity changes, the required application amount of conductive paints, flexibility of the film, workability, and static charge prevention by pattern coating, etc.
Transparent hard-coating materials designed for use with plastics for static charge prevention have also been developed.

Conductive polymers are frequently used in the aerospace industry.
Polymer insulating materials accumulate secondary electrons by high-energy electrons.
If the electrostatic potential by secondary electrons exceeds the dielectric strength of the polymer, this will cause a fracture that compromises normal functionalities.
That is where conductive polymers are beneficial.

The coating performance of conductive paints is determined by the adhesion strength to plastic cases or the characteristics required by users. General evaluation methods include heat resistance tests, damp heat tests, heat cycle tests, salt spray tests, tape peel tests, staining, metal power isolation, sheet resistance, and shielding effects.

Drawbacks of the conductive paints are [1] conductive filler's unevenness in the coating caused by insufficient mixing of the paints; [2] cracks on the coating and the base material caused by using an incompatible solution for the plastic base material; and [3] whitening occurred under high-temperature/humidity environments.
It is necessary to consider the workability when selecting the solution. In addition, it is important to consider dilution stability.