What the laser can't cut

Although the laser can be used to engrave or cut various materials, some of these are not suitable for this type of technique. 

The composition and characteristics of some materials make them unsuitable or even prohibited for laser processing as they can be harmful to the environment and to humans. 

Let's see together which materials cannot be subjected to laser beams.

Materials not suitable for laser processing

Whether it is laser cutting or engraving, some materials are not suitable and therefore cannot be subjected to the laser beam.

PVC, Vinyl, and textiles containing PVC

PVC, Vinyl, and textiles containing PVC are dangerous for the possible formation of chlorine gas and hydrochloric acid during processing. This may result in damage to the machine's optics and corrosion of some metal parts. In addition, the motion control system could be damaged and operators endangered.

Chromium-containing leather or fake leather

Chromium-containing leather or fake leather when subjected to lasers can become harmful to health. However, there are several materials on the market suitable for laser processing since they do not contain this substance. It will be enough to check its composition to work safely.

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) can release toxic cyanide gas, affecting plastic and thermoplastic materials. In this case, the laser melts the material rather than vaporizing it, creating the risk that the piece catches fire and then releases molten material onto the machine.

HDPE (High Density Polyethylene)

HDPE (High Density Polyethylene), hard PE and PE-HD are easily ignitable and highly dangerous materials as they could melt during processing and catch fire.

Expanded polypropylene

Expanded polypropylene if subjected to the laser beam, as in the case of the previous category, it is at risk of fire and tends to liquefy on the plate, and then solidifies and becomes difficult to remove from the machine.

Fiberglass/glass fibre or reinforced plastic

Fiberglass/glass fibre or reinforced plastic can lead to the formation of toxic fumes. Both glass and epoxy resin are absolutely forbidden materials for laser processing.

Coated carbon fibre

Coated carbon fibre during processing produces harmful vapours. It is unsuitable for laser technique as the workpiece may break during machining.

CFRP (carbon reinforced plastic)

CFRP (carbon reinforced plastic) is a hazardous material as it leads to melting of the cutting edges and damages the laser optics, as well as forming fumes dangerous to human health.

Polycarbonate plastic/PC

Polycarbonate plastic/PC with the laser technique leads to the formation of toxic fumes as it contains chlorine, phosgene and carcinogenic solvents.

Epoxy and phenolic

Epoxy and phenolic resins can catch fire and still lead to poor quality results.

Lasered neoprene

Lasered neoprene triggers harmful vapours as it contains chlorine. 

Also pay attention to the term "flame retardant" included in the characteristics of the material, as bromine is often used, another highly dangerous component when subjected to laser.

Finally, another aspect not to be underestimated is the use of lasers on reflective surfaces. 

In the case of materials such as mirrors, there is a risk that they will reflect the beam and deflect it in other directions. If the laser were to bounce, it could damage things or people near the work area. To avoid unforeseen events, use paper tape and cover the reflective surface of the material you want to work on. At the end of the machining, it will be possible to remove the belt and obtain a high-quality machining.

Conclusions

Given the risks involved in using these materials with the laser technique, it is important to ascertain the composition of each piece, whether it is engraving or laser cutting (or other processes that use a laser beam).

If in doubt, we advise you to contact the supplier and check the composition of the material.