LASER MARKING PLASTIC
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When processing a material with a laser, is it referred to as foaming or color change, it is also a special type of Laser marking intended, where the laser only works on the surface of the material.
Plastics often consist of various substances that react differently when processed with a laser. Not only the base material plays a role, but also individual color pigments or other mixed components contained in the material. Additives, fillers, or protective agents, for example, influence the laser result.
When permanent markings are to be applied to plastics, laser engraving is the most frequently chosen alternative. Unlike traditional methods such as printing or embossing, laser engraving is extremely durable and can produce high-contrast markings.
Most plastics can be marked very well with a laser, but some can only be marked with the addition of specific additives. In this process, the polymer is melted and a foam-like structure is formed, which is why this process is also called foaming. This way, light-colored plastics can be marked dark and dark plastics can be marked light. With certain additives, laser marking on plastic can even be done in color.
Plastics can be marked by color change. The energy of the laser beam changes the optical properties of the pigments in the workpiece being processed, and the surface of the workpiece remains virtually undamaged. The plastic material is only processed to a depth in the micrometer range.
What laser marking procedures
for plastics are there?
Carbonization or recoloring
Individual molecules are specifically destroyed by the energy of the laser beam, thereby altering their structure. Plastic contains carbon and this is burned through carbonization. The result is a high-contrast laser inscription and is often used on light-colored plastic housings, such as polycarbonate electronic enclosures.
Foaming
The laser's heat causes the surface of the plastic to melt. This foaming process creates gas bubbles on the material, increasing its volume. The carbon content in the plastic oxidizes to CO² and escapes. As a result, this release creates a foam layer on the surface (raised area). This is what creates the contrast in the laser marking of the plastic and a „raised“ mark.
Day/Night process
The day/night function is used for all controls that need to be illuminated in the dark, for example in the automotive industry. By removing the top layer, painted or coated plastics can be marked with the appropriate labels and geometries. The buttons in the car interior appear white due to the layer removal and are illuminated from behind in the dark.
What results can laser marking achieve with my plastic?
To achieve the maximum contrast ratio , the combination of material basis and laser parameters is crucial for labeling on plastic.
For some plastics, no additional laser additive is required, for example, bright marking on a dark/black surface.
With other polymers 2 – 3 % laser additive is added to the masterbatch or, if necessary, a combination batch is chosen to achieve the best possible marking results. Our long-standing partner, Gabriel-Chemie is happy to provide advice. In a series of preliminary tests, your individual masterbatch will be developed to perfection.
The table on the right provides an overview of which laser marking contrasts (light/dark/colored) can be achieved on the individual plastic types.
Is your plastic not on the list? Are you unsure how high-contrast laser marking can be achieved on your plastic? Feel free to send us your parts for a test laser marking.
Laser marking of plastics provides clear, high-contrast results by altering the surface structure or color of the material without physical contact.
Depending on the type of plastic, the laser creates effects such as foaming, color change, carbonization, or bleaching, resulting in precise and permanent markings that remain legible even under mechanical stress or chemical exposure.
This method is ideal for electronic housings, automotive components, medical devices, and consumer goods where a clean, permanent marking is essential.
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Innovation - The Laser Logo
Products made from recycled materials haven't just been trending since 2026. However, the recycling loop usually ends there, as product labeling requires labels combined with water-insoluble adhesive, thereby destroying the possibility of recycling.
What three components are important to guarantee the recycling of packaging?
Recyclable plastic as a base material
Neutral behavior of additives, such as laser additives
Elimination of labels, inks, sleeves & adhesives for product marking
Laser marking is directly lasered onto the plastic packaging. Laser marking on plastics completely dispenses with additional materials. Only some molecules are destroyed or discolored by the energy of the laser beam (see laser marking process on plastic above).
The permanent and chemical-resistant labeling on plastics is positively influenced by laser additive manufacturing. Through 2-3 % additions of laser additives in combination with a masterbatch, the absorption of laser radiation is increased and high-contrast marking is achieved.
These laser additives behave neutrally in the recycling process and thus support the recycling of plastic packaging.
Thus, with a recycled material base, a 100%ig Recycling given.
Are laser systems for plastics sustainable?
The laser systems themselves are impressive due to their long lifespan and low power consumption (avg. 300-350 W). For example, a fiber laser, which is also often used for labeling plastic, has an average lifespan of 100,000 operating hours.
In addition to integrated air cooling, our laser systems are low-maintenance and wear-free – perfect for continuous use.
Laser systems have on average a nearly 80 % lower power consumption as a commercial hair dryer.
Do you want to learn more about laser marking?
Gain an overview of the diverse applications of laser marking systems in our booklet. A practical overview of all our labeling systems – whether as stand-alone systems or integrated into your production line – can be found in our product portfolio.
Feel free to try out our new laser configurator. Answer questions about your needs and receive a personalized quote from us as soon as possible.