UK company MacDermid Autotype Limited has a new filmed called Autotex S which shows promise as a substrate for membrane switch overlays, fascia panels, nameplates and other labels. Autotex S is a textured hardcoat that when printed with a specialist mirror ink creates a stainless steel look, but retains the benefits of film including high abrasion, solvent and chemical resistance, and flexibility. The new textured film consists of a polyester base coated with a flexible chemically bonded, UV-cured textured coating. There is an ink adhesion primer on the second surface which allows adhesion to a wide range of solved based graphic inks (UV-cured graphic inks are not recommended). The stainless steel look is highly desirable from a cosmetic perspective and this substrate provides the following advantages over the real deal: -Impact resistant -No fingerprinting -Can incorporate secret till lit features -Second surface printing of text that is clearly viewable through

If your application calls for meeting very specific design criteria and you need a substrate with strength, good optical clarity and excellent printability then Lexan nameplates or polycarbonate nameplates may the the most appropriate choice for your project. Polycarbonate nameplates are easy to die cut and emboss and have excellent ink adhesion. Because the material is fairly easy to work with it gives you a great deal of design freedom to make your nameplate look exactly as you need it to look. Polycarbonate nameplates and Lexan nameplates are perfect for membrane switch overlays, automotive panels, spacers & insulators, product identification and panel overlays. Polycarbonate nameplates may not be the best choice for applications that require chemical resistance, outdoor applications, and harsh environments. If you are looking for a material less expensive you may wish to consider paper nameplates; if you are looking for a material that is more durable and