Decor paper is a kind of high-grade specialty paper that is printed with a wide range of designs for use in furniture surfaces, panels, and flooring. These papers have unique esthetic qualities that are attractive to customers and add dimensional stability to the end-product. Increasing demand for decorative furniture, coupled with rising disposable income in the emerging markets, is driving growth of the global decor paper market.
Various printing techniques are used to produce decorated paper. However, the gravure printing process is best suited to produce decor papers due to its large print width and high ink content. It can also print on the smallest detail without losing quality. However, a major disadvantage of this technology is its complex set up and low overall equipment efficiency (OEE). The high capital investment required for the gravure press makes it impractical for small production runs.
This will reduce the overall cost of production and allow for short run lengths, reduced inventory & waste, and design variations. In addition, the new digital printing technology will increase production speeds and overall equipment effectiveness.These inks are non-toxic and meet the requirements for environmental protection, especially anti-UV and light resistance. In addition, they must be able to be printed on a variety of substrates and have good adhesion properties for the subsequent melamine formaldehyde impregnation process.
MF resins are widely used as a base for decorative wood coatings, as they can be applied to almost any substrate. They are also used in laminates, veneers, and other composite products. They are highly durable and can withstand the most extreme conditions, including exposure to sunlight, moisture, and heat. They are also abrasion-resistant and provide superior scratch-resistance.
The surface chemistry of two industrially printed decor papers, Latin Ceviz and Walnut, was analyzed by the attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR FT-IR) technique and compared to the spectra obtained from unprinted control samples. Despite the similarity in their appearance, the cellulose characteristic peaks in the spectra of both decor papers were clearly distinguished. The results indicate that the printed cellulose ethers in the two decor papers were characterized differently by ATR FT-IR and this may have an influence on the adhesion of the MF coating to the cellulose.
Printed decor paper is essential for the furniture industry, and the market is expected to continue growing at a healthy rate in the near future. In addition, the booming construction industry is boosting demand for decorative panels and flooring.