Many ink vendors have experience with polyester substrates as well as a variety of uses to which the printed piece may be subjected. Eastar and Spectar copolyesters can be successfully used with these decoration methods. It is important to distinguish between laser printing and laser engraving. Almost any opaque surface can be marked by the YAG, even cross sections so thin as to be transmissive to the gas laser. A YAG laser is more commonly used with plastic articles, particularly for complex and high-precision tasks.
Contrast varies, depending on color, glass loading, character formation, and line definition.
The prime concern for effective laser printing for a given application is contrast. This is largely a function of the colorant used. Laser printing of clear polyesters may be a challenge. Clear materials may allow the laser beam to penetrate through the article. Experience with Eastar copolyesters and Eastalloy polymers has resulted in beam bubbles or burns into the clear substrate, leaving a poor appearance.