Finke Colors launches laser additive for transparent plastics

Finke Colors is expanding its portfolio of laser-active masterbatches with a new solution for high-quality marking of transparent plastics. The new laser additive enables optical effects that stand out clearly from traditional laser markings, precise, durable and visible directly within the material. Instead of modifying or damaging the surface, the marking is created inside the polymer. In transparent applications, the visual effect resembles a delicate hologram, with depth becoming visible depending on the angle of light and the viewer’s perspective. According to the company, the additive is intended for applications where permanent identification, design elements or security features must be integrated into plastic components without the use of labels or additional materials.

A different approach to laser marking

Conventional laser markings are typically based on foaming or carbonization. In these processes, the laser intentionally damages the surface to generate a visible contrast. The new laser additive from Finke Colors follows another principle. Laser energy triggers a targeted reaction within the plastic, while the surface remains intact, smooth and unchanged.

The optical properties are modified locally inside the material rather than at the surface. As a result, clean and highly detailed markings can be produced without material removal or structural changes to the component surface.

Use in colored transparent plastics

The hologram-like effect is particularly visible in colored transparent plastics or in materials containing colored filling material. Finke Colors reports excellent results in several polymers, including:

• PET
• PETG
• PC
• PMMA

High-contrast, high-resolution structures with considerable visual depth can be created, especially in transparent and colored components. This makes the additive suitable for both functional markings and design-oriented applications.

Compatibility with standard laser systems

The effect can be achieved using standard NIR and green laser systems. No special laser sources or costly retrofits are required. This can simplify integration into existing production lines and may support the use of the technology in mass-production applications.

Recyclability remains unchanged

Despite the visual change created in the material, the recyclability of the plastics remains fully intact. According to Finke Colors, the additive does not affect recyclability or established recycling processes, supporting product concepts based on material cycles.

Application areas

The new laser additive is particularly suitable for applications that combine high optical requirements with permanent marking. Typical areas mentioned by the company include:

• medical technology
• electronics and housing components
• greenhouses
• optical and transparent components
• packaging with design or security features
• high-quality consumer goods

Label-free marking in the component

Like other marking solutions from Finke Colors, the new laser additive is designed for label-free marking. Information, designs or security features are integrated directly into the component, permanently and without additional materials. The company presents the development as a way to combine functionality, design and sustainability in plastics applications.