How Can Raman Spectroscopy Contribute to Optimize Your Laminating Process, 2004 Decorative & Industrial Laminates Symposium

Melamine covered decorative surfaces are well known for their excellent properties. In the laminating business there is a continuous drive for better use of raw materials, leading to more critical production processes, while the surface properties must be kept on the highest possible level. In this paper we present the potentials of Raman spectroscopy and Confocal Raman microscopy as a tool to examine surface quality and to identify the cause of laminate surface defects. These techniques can be used for examining Bstaged pre impregnated papers and LPL/HPL laminates. Raman spectroscopy is based on the scattering of light. Confocal Raman allows mapping of surfaces and nondestructive depth profiling with a resolution of 1 – 2 µm. The technique is easy, fast and non-destructive. Examples will show how Raman spectroscopy provides insight into the causes of laminate surface defects, so leading to more efficient optimization of the laminating process.