The science behind TESLIN® substrate distinguishes it from every other synthetic paper or printable plastic available today. Because of its one-of-a-kind microporous polyolefin-silica matrix, Teslin substrate harmonizes a range of seemingly contradictory performance characteristics to create a versatile and adaptable enabling technology:

• Strength and flexibility – Polyolefin provides Teslin substrate with the rigidity and reinforcing strength of plastic, while microporosity allows it to remain lightweight and flexible in a broad array of processing and service conditions.
• High absorption capacity and water-resistance – The tiny holes in Teslin substrate readily absorb inks and toners to ensure brilliant color reproduction and to lock-in printed text, graphics and photos nearly instantaneously. The polyolefin base helps the material retain form when submerged in or exposed to water, enabling it to meet British Standard (BS) 5609 for immersion-labeling testing.
• Rugged durability and protective cushioning – Teslin substrate is resistant to chemicals, abrasion, moisture and temperature extremes, yet it maintains the suppleness needed to cushion, insulate and protect electronic materials from damage, unlike harder, less-forgiving synthetic substrates.

Other differentiating benefits associated with microporosity include:

• Static-dissipation – Many synthetic substrates are vulnerable to static build-up. This can damage magnetic strips or electronic components embedded in printed cards, labels and other items; create paper jams that slow print production; or generate electrical currents that can shock or injure press operators or harm printing equipment. The micropores in Teslin substrate naturally absorb and dissipate static, reducing the potential for electrical discharge. This enables the material to pass American National Standards Institute/Electrostatic Discharge Association (ANSI/ESD) standard S541 For the Protection of Electrostatic Discharge Susceptible Items at 50 percent humidity.
• Breathability – Teslin substrate has the strength and rigidity to function as a hard physical barrier, yet is porous enough to transmit air, vapor and gases.
• Conformability – Labels and other materials printed on Teslin substrate readily conform to rough, fluid or uneven surfaces.
• Highly Bondable Adhesion – Teslin substrate instantly absorbs polymers and other materials, enabling it to form strong mechanical bonds to a variety of substrates without adhesives.
• Lamination strength – Melted plastic film flows into the pores of Teslin substrate during the lamination process, creating powerful interlocking bonds that are up to 10 times stronger than other synthetic materials.