Zinc whiskers are tiny growths of elemental zinc that form on the surfaces of objects that are electroplated, or galvanized, with zinc. When present on circuit boards or other electronic objects, zinc whiskers can cause short circuits that are difficult to diagnose. Objects that can develop zinc whiskers include nuts and bolts, steel conduits, sheet metal, metal railings, and certain types of tile flooring system.

The whiskers are typically 2 microns in diameter and over time, (many years) the whiskers can grow to be several millimetres in length. While the whiskers are attached to the floor panel or pedestal, they are basically benign. When the whiskers break free however, they become airborne and can circulate freely throughout the facility and get blown into your equipment.

ENERGENIQ provides testing services for Zinc Whiskers. Sample Coupons are used to take samples from different locations and then send to laboratory for microscopy imaging.