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Data sheet for HPL
This information describes the composition of H.P.L. and gives advice for their handling, processing, use and disposal. It covers all H.P.L. grades as described in EN 438. H.P.L. are not classified as hazardous substances and therefore do not require a special marking nor a description by a safety data sheet.
1. Description / Composition
The materials referred to are high pressure decorative laminates (H.P.L.) according to the European Norm EN 438 and to ISO 4586. H.P.L. are sheets consisting of layers of cellulose fibrous material (normally paper) impregnated with thermosetting resins and bonded together by the high pressure process. The process, defined as the simultaneous application of heat (³ 120°C) and high specific pressure (³ 7 MPa) provides flowing and subsequent curing of the thermosetting resins to obtain a homogeneous non-porous material (³ 1,35 g/cm3) and with the required surface finish. Basically more than 60% of the H.P.L. consists of paper and the remaining 30 to 40% consists of cured phenol - formaldehyde resin for the core layers and melamine - formaldehyde for the surface layer. Both resins belonging to the group of thermosetting resins are irreversibly inter-reacted through cross linked chemical bonds formed during the curing process producing non-reactive, stable material with characteristics which are totally different from those of its component parts. The H.P.L. are supplied in sheets form in a variety of sizes, thickness and surface finishes. Where improved fire retardance is required, the laminate core may be treated with an additive which does not contain halogens.
2. Storage and transportation
Storage and transportation should be carried out in accordance with the General Processing Recommendations for H.P.L. no special precautions need to be taken. For transportation, H.P.L. is classified as a non hazardous product; no labelling is required.
3. Handling and machining of H.P.L.
The usual safety requirements for fabrication and machining should be observed with regard to dust extraction, dust collection and fire precautions. Because of the possibility of sharp edges, protective gloves should always be worn when handling laminates. The contact with dust from H.P.L. does not present any special problem, however a small percentage of personnel may be sensitive or even allergic to machining dust in general.
4. Environmental and health aspects in use
Decorative laminates are cures and therefore chemically inert. Gas release from surfaces and edges is so low that they are not detectable by instrumental analysis. Due to their very low permeability, H.P.L. bonded to wood-based substrates act as a barrier against possible formaldehyde emission coming from the substrates. H.P.L. formaldehyde emission level is far below the limit for wood-based materials. There is no migration affecting foodstuffs and consequently, H.P.L. re approved for contact with foodstuffs. The decorative surfaces are resistant to all common household solvents and chemicals and have therefore been used for many years in applications where cleanliness and hygiene are important. The non-porous H.P.L. surface and edges are easy to disinfect with hot water, steam and all types of disinfectants used in hospitals and other commercial applications.
5. Maintenance
As H.P.L. does not suffer from corrosion and oxidation, it does not need any further surface protection (like lacquers or paints).
6. H.P.L. in fire situations
Laminates are difficult to ignite and have properties that retard "spread of flame", thus prolonging evacuating time. Due to incomplete burning, as with any organic material, hazardous substances are to be found in the smoke. However H.P.L. are capable of meeting the best performance of organic surfacing materials specified in the French standard NFF 16101 (= at least class F2 for smoke density and toxicity). In dealing with fires in which laminates are involved the same fire fighting techniques should be employed as with other wood-based building materials.
7. Energy recovery
On account of their high calorific value (18 - 20 MJ/Kg) H.P.L. are ideal for thermal recycling. When burned completely at 700°C, H.P.L. produce water, carbon dioxide and oxides of nitrogen. Therefore H.P.L. comply with the Kreislaufwirtschaftsgesetz (para. 6). For comparison: calorific value of oil = 37 - 41 MJ/Kg, or of hard coal = 28 - 31 MJ/Kg Well controlled burning processes are achieved in modern, officially approved industrial incinerators. Ashes of this process can be brought to controlled waste disposal sites. For comparison: calorific value of oil = 37 - 41 MJ/Kg, or of hard coal = 28 - 31 MJ/Kg
8. Waste disposal
H.P.L. can be brought to controlled waste disposal sites according to current national and/or regional regulations.
9. Technical data
9.1 Physical-chemical characteristics
9.1.1 Physical state Solid sheet
9.1.2 Density ³ 1.35 g/cm3
9.1.3 Solubility Insoluble in water, oil, methanol, diethyl ether, n-octanol, acetone
9.1.4 Boiling point None
9.1.5 Evaporation rate None
9.1.6. Melting point Do not melt
9.1.7 Calorific value 18 – 20 MJ / Kg
9.1.8 Heavy metals HPL do not contain toxic compounds of antimony, barium, cadmium, chromiumIII, chromiumVI, lead, mercury, selenium.
9.2 Stability and reactivity data
9.2.1 Stability HPL are stable; they are not considered to be reactive nor corrosive
9.2.2 Hazardous reactions None
9.2.3 Material incompatibility Strong acids or alkaline solutions will stain the surface
9.3 Fire and explosion data
9.3.1 Ignition temperature Approx. 400 °C
9.3.2 Flash point None
9.3.3 Thermal decomposition Possible above 250 °C. Depending upon the burning conditions(temperature, amount of oxygen etc.) toxic gases may be emitted, e.g. carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, ammonia.
9.3.4 Safety HPL is safe when tested according to NF F 16 101.
9.3.5 Flammability HPL are not considered to be flammable. They will burn only in a fire situation, in presence of open flames.
9.3.6 Extinguishing media HPL are considered as class A material. Carbon dioxide, water spray, dry chemical foam can be used to extinguish flames. Water dampens and prevents rekindling. Wear self breathing apparatus and fire protective clothing.
9.3.7 Explosion hazard HPL machining, sawing, sanding, routing produces class ST-1 dust. Safety precautions and adequate ventilation shall be observed to avoid airborne dust concentration.
9.3.8 Explosion limits Dust below 60 mg/m3
9.3.9 Protection against fire and explosion None required as for wood based building materials.
9.4 Storage and transport HPL is classified as non-hazardous for transportation purposes and there are no specific requirements.
9.5 Machining Use gloves to protect from sharp edges and safety-glasses to prevent eye injury. No special working equipment is necessary, except protections to minimize dust exposure in case of sheet machining.
9.6 Disposal considerations Waste material shall be handled according to local regulations. Burning is permitted in approved industrial incinerators.
9.7 Health information HPL are not considered to be dangerous for humans and animals. There is no evidence of HPL toxicological effects and eco-toxicity. HPL surfaces are physiologically safe and are approved for use in contact with foodstuffs according to pr-EN1186
9.7.1 Working areas General dust regulations to apply
9.7.2 Formaldehyde emission Typical value for an unbound 1 mm HPL:<0.4 mg / h m2 when tested according to EN 717–2 <0.05 ppm when tested according to the WKI chamber method.
9.8 Additional remarks HPL as received are solid sheets and there would not be any health hazards associated with them.
All the above information is based on the current state of technical knowledge, but does not constitute any form of guarantee. It is the personal responsibility of users of the products, described in this webpage to comply with the appropriate laws and regulations.