The term carbonation refers to the process of darkening the colour of plastics using a laser system. The laser burns individual components of the plastic, creating a dark coating. The contrast achievable essentially depends on the synthetic composition and the primary colour of the material used.  Materials that exhibit a poor reaction to the laser can be optimised by means of laser additives.

Advantages of carbonation: high contrast values are obtainable with light coloured plastics. In addition to the good legibility, code reading is much easier.  As is the case with all laser marking, carbonation is abrasion-resistant.

Typical materials (selection): ABS, PEAK, PC,... 

The correct laser technology for the user is basically oriented to the machining time available. The laser technology best suited for your application can be determined in one of the ACI laboratories by a free-of-charge test. 

Using a laser to foam plastics produces bright markings. The laser melts the plastic, creating small gas bubbles. These become embedded in the plastic when it cools down. Incident light is diffusely reflected on this changed surface causing the marking to appear brightly. The contrast is strongly dependent on the composition of the plastic and its primary colour.  Materials that exhibit a poor reaction to the laser can be optimised by means of laser additives.

Advantages of foaming: high contrast values are obtainable with dark plastics. In addition to the good legibility, code reading is much easier. The marking is abrasion-resistant, as is the case with all laser markings.

Typical materials (selection): PA6, POM, ...

The correct laser technology for the user is basically oriented to the machining time available. The laser technology best suited for your application can be determined in one of the ACI laboratories by a free-of-charge test. 

When engraving using a laser, noticeable ablation occurs on the workpiece surface. The laser vapourises the material, creating an identifiable and tangible marking.  This type of marking usually produces a low-contrast, as the ablation process does not produce any appreciable colour change. This type of marking is particularly suited for plastics, which do not support a colour change as in carbonation or foaming, or are supplied with a coating in a subsequent step.

Advantages of engraving: An extremely robust marking is achieved due to the deep penetration. The marking usually remains visible even after subsequent coating processes.

Typical materials (selection): nearly all common plastics

The correct laser technology for the user is basically oriented to the marking depth desired and the machining time available. The laser technology best suited for your application can be determined in one of the ACI laboratories by a free-of-charge test.