These suggestions are based on our experience with the process.

Good rating has a 180° peel force of > 10 lb/in (>170 Kg/m).
Fair rating has a 180° peel force of 5-10 lb/in (90-170 Kg/m).
Poor rating has a 180° peel force of < 5 lb/in (90 Kg/m).

Studies have shown that higher adhesion values can be obtained when the resins are run at the high end of their suggested melt temperatures in molds that are also run at the high end of the suggested temperature range. Studies have also shown that high-flow resins work better with second-surface printing. Be aware, however, that higher flow resins have less mechanical strength because of the smaller molecule size.

Lexan* OQ Resin is often used for lenses, but as lenses increase in size and are included in the bezel, a less brittle material like the Lexan* SP resin may work well.

Visualfx* Resins, filled resins and resins compounded with release agents, have been used successfully in IMD. It should be noted that the use of sprayed mold release agents will result in poor adhesion between the resin and film.

Ink tie layers can increase low ink-resin adhesion. Tie layers are typically applied as a final flood coat to the 2nd surface of the film during screen printing.
Tycel* Urethane Adhesive 7044 from Liofol* Company
Tycel* Urethane Adhesive 7058 from Liofol* Company
AquaPress* ME from Proell
Aquatex Sealcoat SC from Autotype

Adhesive systems and lamination systems may increase adhesion to resins that typically have poor adhesion. Promising results have been seen on olefin and epoxy resin systems used in proto-molding and compression. For information on these systems, contact us.

Tycel and Liofol are registered trademarks of Liofol Company.
AquaPress is registered trademark of Proell, Inc.