Introduction of advanced functionalities in laminates for wood-based panels: surface quality evaluation (Cap. 1)

Abstract

Ana Henriques, Cristina Coelho, João M. Ferra, Jorge Manuel Martins, Fernão D. Magalhães, and Luísa Carvalho 1. Introduction of advanced functionalities in laminates for wood-based panels: surface quality evaluation in Wood Composites Page Range: 1-32 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1515/9783110416084-001 ABSTRACT Abstract High-pressure laminates (HPL), manufactured with paper and thermosetting resins, are a value-added product that has been increasingly used for home and commercial surfaces and a practical solution for horizontal or vertical surfaces that require high physical, mechanical, and chemical performances, with a high versatility and excellent decoration ability. Intensive applications as scholar furniture with mar resistance, abrasion resistance, and dirt repellent; laboratory countertops with chemical resistance and dirt repellent; exterior flooring with UV resistance, mar resistance, and abrasion resistance; technical flooring with phosphorescent properties, abrasion and mar resistance for public buildings; hospital furniture with dirt repellence and antimicrobial properties; whiteboards with mar and abrasion resistance demands the introduction of advanced functionalities in high-pressure laminates not existent in the market. The development of innovative impregnation resins with new functionalities could result in multifunctional laminates as the result of the combination of new and better properties. In this chapter, the focus is on the production and characterization of decorative laminates, as well as the modification of this material in order to provide advanced functionalities.