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Decorative Foils

Decorative foils are an intermediate-range paperbased overlay and are also called impregnated papers. They are generally pre-impregnated with a blend of melamine, acrylic and urea resins during the paper-manufacturing process or post-impregnated after the paper is fully cured. Decorative foils weigh between 40 and 200 grams/ m2 untreated. During the impregnation process, the cellulose papers typically gain between 20 and 50 percent of their base weight. Those between 100 and 200 grams are dubbed specialty papers and are more likely than lighter-weight varieties to be used for exposed decorative surfaces.

The impregnated foils are bonded with an adhesive system to a substrate (ex: MDF or particleboard). Quantity, method and type of impregnation and the type of adhesive system and substrate will have a direct effect on the finished product. These qualities will be demonstrated in cutting and machining performance. Although impregnated papers do not require a topcoat to be considered a foil, most foils receive a finished topcoat for increased durability and scratch-resistance. Due to substrate surface advancements, the use and performance of decorative foils has increased. Widespread use of decorative foils ranges from retail fixtures to closet systems, RTA furniture, profile wrappings and POP displays. Specifiers choose decorative foils for their sharp print fidelity; wear-, stain- and water-resistant qualities; ease of maintenance and durability as well as their costeffectiveness and reliable machining and manufacturing characteristics.

Common Uses:

• Cabinets & Doors
• Furniture & Cabinet Surfaces
• Closet Systems
• Store Fixtures
• Ready to Assemble Furniture
• Picture Frames