The materials referred to are high pressure decorative laminates (HPL) according to IS : 2046-1995. HPL are sheets consisting of layers of cellulose fibrous material (normally Absorbent Craft Paper) impregnated with thermosetting resins made in-house and bonded together in a high pressure process. The process, defined as a simultaneous application of heat (≥ 145 °C) and high specific pressure(≥ 210 kg/cm2), provides flowing and subsequent curing of the thermosetting resins to obtain a homogenous non-porous material with the required surface finish. Basically more than 60% to 70% of the HPL consist of paper and the remaining 40% to 30 % consist of cured phenol-formaldehyde resin for core layers and melamine-formaldehyde resin for the surface layer. Both resins belonging to the group of thermosetting resins are irreversibly interacted through cross linked chemical bonds formed during the curing process producing a nonreactive, stable material with characteristics which are totally different from those of its component parts. HPL are supplied in sheet form in a variety of sizes, thicknesses and surface finishes. Where improved fire retardance is required, the laminate core may be treated with an additive which does not contain halogens
Physical state | Solid sheets |
Density | ≥1,35 g/cm3 |
Solubility | Insoluble in water, oil, methanol, diethyl ether, n-octanol, acetone |
Boiling point | None |
Evaporation rate | None |
Melting point | HPL do not melt |
Calorific value | 18 - 20 MJ/kg |
Heavy Metals | HPL do not contain toxic compounds of antimony, heavy metals, barium, cadmium, chromiumIII, chromiumVI, lead, mercury, selenium |
Stability | HPL are stable; they are not considered to be reactive or corrosive. |
Hazardous reactions | None |
Material incompatibility | Strong acids or alkaline solutions will stain the surface |
It minimizes the generation of charge by contact-separation or rubbing with another material. It does not need to be earthed. Surface resistivity is between 109 – 1012 ohms and a chargeability of V < 2 kV according to CEI IEC 61340-4-1 so that HPL are considered as antistatic material.
Storage and transport | HPL are classified as non-hazardous for transportation purposes and there are no specific requirements |
Machining | Use gloves to protect from sharp edges and safety glasses to prevent eye injuries. No special working equipment is necessary, except protections to minimize dust exposure in case of sheet machining |
Disposal considerations | Waste material should be handled according to local regulations. Burning is permitted in approved industrial incinerators |
Health information | HPL are not considered to be dangerous for humans and animals. There is no evidence of HPL-induced toxicological effects and eco-toxicity. HPL surfaces are physiologically safe and approved for use in contact with foodstuff |