Basic tests concerning the behaviour of PO foils during technological processing as a prerequisite for the replacement of PVC foils in the furniture industry

Extensive tests on polyolefin foils 3D coated furniture fronts for kitchens were realised . Results: A series of error causes could be identified. The behaviour of the materials adverse in part of an effect to an optimal material composite within the technologically relevant temperature ranges.

The objective of the project is to ensure quality processing of PO foils in 3D coating of furniture parts as a replacement for polyvinyl chloride(PVC) foils by the partner of the project.


Procedure and results:

• Extensive tests were performed on seasonally manufactured samples. Distinctive peeling force losses are clearly detectable in the corner areas of the components, with components of small outside radiuses, with high vertical slim edges, and with very small components (transverse position to the unrolling direction of the foil).
• Microscope examinations clearly showed the weak spots in the edge areas on the underside and slim edge of the component. With components that have passed the climatic test, the fissure resulting from the shrinking foil and, hence, the shrinking adhesive is a working point for possible short or long term damage to the component.
• The materials involved in the material composite (foils, adhesive, primer) were tested using various measuring methods of Thermal Analysis. These tests showed that, within the technologically relevant temperature ranges, the behaviour of the materials used is in part of an effect adverse to an optimal material composite.
• On the side of the foil manufacturer, examinations must include the option to enlarge the processing range of the melting temperature range to such an extent that any material variations in different production lots become less evident in product quality.
• In order to allow for the higher processing temperature level of PO foil, the adhesive manufacturers’ contribution could be, for example, to modify the adhesive in such a way that it attains high initial tack values at temperatures of approx. 60 °C already.

Source Of Supply: The final report (call number F 03 B 1601, in German) can be borrowed from Technische Informationsbibliothek (TIB) Hannover, Welfengarten 1B, 30167 Hannover.


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