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Light basis weight papers (LBWP) and decorative foils can be printed with excellent quality and high-fidelity patterns.
Introduction
Optional chemical, optical, or gloss-matte embossing of these papers enhances the realism of woodgrain and natural patterns. These laminates have long been common in higher levels of value engineering and are widely used in cabinets, store fixtures, paneling, shelving, closet systems, RTA, and home office furniture.
Light basis weight papers and decorative foils are usually divided into two categories, standard and industrial.
Standard grade papers contain a lower amount of resin in the base paper and offer an economical overlay for use on general surface applications.
How It’s Made
Light basis weight papers (LBWP) and Decorative Foils are distinguished by weight. LBWP ranges in weight from 23 to 50 grams/m2. Decorative Foils weigh between 40 and 200 grams/m2. Both laminates are paper based and may contain acrylic, polyester, or other resins added during the paper making process (pre-impregnated) to improve the internal bond strength. Pre-impregnating may add between 20-50% of the original
base paper weight. The paper is then printed and top-coated with polyurethane, urea, polyester, acrylic, melamine, or a combination thereof for increased durability and performance.
Attributes
Decorative foils are often referred to as impregnated papers and are used in more demanding applications where durability and scratch resistance are critical. Although impregnated papers do not require a topcoat to be considered a foil, most foils receive a finished topcoat for increased durability. Top coated foils are often called “finished foils.”
Industrial grade papers with their higher resin content, should be specified for applications that demand higher production and processing performance (i.e., improved cutting and machining). The cost effectiveness of this overlay group is further enhanced by the possibility of single-sided panels. It is not necessary to laminate both sides of the substrate to achieve a balanced panel. As an additional application, depending on their weight, light basis weight papers and decorative foils can be profile wrapped to produce trim that is an exact match of the flat surface.
Both paper laminates will accept a variety of adhesives applied during the laminating process. Additionally, they can be supplied precoated with hot melt adhesive ready for hot roll laminating without any additional adhesive application to the paper or substrate. The performance and appearance of the finished panel will be affected by the adhesive system used and substrate quality.
Recent advances in gloss and texturing techniques in the production of light basis weight papers and foils have significantly improved the realism optically and “to the touch.” These laminates have found new applications across all sectors as a valuable alternative for designers leading to higher consumer acceptance
Applications
Today’s decorative foils are available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures. They are often used in furniture for the home or office. Decorative foils are often used in slat wall systems for home storage or retail settings and in the manufacture of furniture for the home and office. Applications for decorative foils are virtually identical to thermally fused papers and include profile wrapping for retail shelving.
LBWP Standard LBWP can be found in office furniture and home closet systems. LBWP can be found in ready to assemble furniture. Standard LBWP are used in low wear applications such as ready to assemble furniture (RTA). They are often used in vertical surfaces such as shelving.
