Decor papers Flashcards
What is a décor paper and what are the requirements of this paper? Name at least 3 applications where décor papers are be used!
Décor paper is the carrier of colour and resin for the manufacturing of decorative laminate surfaces. They require resistance to different environmental influences, good mechanical performance (scratch resistant), good printability and treatability.
Applications: high spec surfaces such as kitchen worktops
Flooring
Furniture
What is the main filler used for décor papers? Please explain why only this type of filler can be used and why other fillers don’t work!
Titanium dioxide (TiO2). It is used to make the paper opaque, it has the highest refractive index compared to other fillers as well as being produced in large quantities, being non-toxic and easy to handle. Other fillers have these as disadvantages – eg kaolin becomes transparent when melamine (type of impregnation resin) is used.
Please explain which factors can influence the impregnation characteristics of a décor paper?
The size, number, and shape of cavities will influence impregnation. Additionally compression of the paper, this can close pores, decrease porosity which will decrease pick up.
Please name 5 paper properties of a décor which can influence the printing result during rotogravure printing!
Smoothness, wettability, thickness, compressibility, formation. These can effect the visual impression, colour depth and colour transfer.
What is the difference between an LPL and HPL Laminate? Describe the different pressing conditions and the different features and application of the final laminates!
LPL = low pressure laminate
HPL = high pressure laminate
LPL:
Higher temp lower pressure
Quick pressing time
For less demanding applications
Pressed directly onto particle board
HPL:
Lower temp higher pressure
Long pressing time
High end quality furniture, high resistant surfaces
Glued onto substrate
