A laser marking additive masterbatch is a concentrate added to plastics to enable or improve laser marking by changing the plastic's properties to react to a laser beam, creating a clear, durable mark.
These additives absorb laser light, converting it to heat that discolors, melts, or gasifies the material's surface to form text or designs.
They are essential for marking dark plastics with light marks (like white text on black) or enhancing contrast on various plastic types for products like electronics, packaging, and cables.
How it Works
- Light Absorption: The additive contains components, such as specialized blackening agents, that absorb laser light, particularly from common YAG and fiber lasers.
- Energy Conversion: This absorbed laser energy is rapidly converted into thermal energy.
- Surface Reaction: The localized heat causes a chemical or physical reaction on the plastic's surface, leading to melting, discoloration, or gasification.
- Mark Formation: The resulting surface change forms the desired mark, which is typically permanent, high-contrast, and resistant to fading.
Key Characteristics & Applications
- High Contrast: Additives are formulated to provide sharp, clear, and easy-to-read markings.
- Durability: Marks are permanent, scratch-resistant, and resistant to fading.
- Versatility: Compatible with most polymers (PP, PE, ABS, PET) and works with various laser systems, including fiber, YAG, and UV lasers.
- Common Applications: Electronics, keyboards, packaging, electrical cables, and security seal tags.
Considerations
- Plastic Color: Excessive carbon black can hinder laser marking performance.
- Additive Formulation: Different formulations are tailored for specific polymers and marking requirements, so selection is critical.