STATIC ELIMINATOR AND METHOD
A low profile ionizing surface for use as a static eliminator or charging means in an apparatus within which insulative material is contacted by apparatus surfaces. The LPIS (1) includes a low profile fibrous network (2) of randomly disposed, electrically conductive, 0.5 - 50 mu m by 1/8'' - 3'' microfibers (3) in electrically conductive contact with one another across the network, providing ionizing points (8) across the network surface. The thickness (w) of the network is significantly less than the average length (l) of the microfibers. An adhesive layer (7) fixes the network (2) to a surface of the machine. Thus, when the network is grounded or electrically charged, static charge is removed from the material as it passes across or near the exposed surface of the network. The LPIS may be in the form of a peel-and-stick sheet or tape (31), or a kit may be provided to install the LPIS in an apparatus. A method for ionization of air between a surface of an apparatus and a passing insulative material are also disclosed.