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 a particularly durable material that can hold up under fairly harsh conditions such as heat and chemical exposure you may wish to consider polyester nameplates or mylar nameplates (plastic nameplates) from Hallmark Nameplate. Plastic nameplates are chemical resistant, tear resistant, are appropriate for both indoor and outdoor applications and resist shrinking, stretching and abrasions. All of these features come at a price though: plastic nameplates offer less creative freedom for the designer inasmuch as they are harder to die cut, difficult to form and require special pre-printing treatment. Polyester nameplates and mylar nameplates are perfect for membrane switch overlays, product identification, general labeling, packaging, electronics, magnetic media and packaging. They are especially appropriate for indoor and outdoor applications where they will occasionally be exposed to chemicals, heat, sunlight, and other elements. Polyester nameplates and mylar nameplates may not be the best choice for certain application