Frequently Asked Questions


The following are answers to several commonly asked questions about TESLIN® substrate and its printing, processing and application capabilities. For more information, we invite you visit the online Resource Center.

Q: What is Teslin substrate?
Q: How is Teslin substrate different from other synthetics?
Q: How is Teslin substrate used?
Q: Does Teslin require special inks like other synthetics?
Q: Is Teslin substrate laser-printable?
Q: Can I use Teslin substrate in our copier and office printer?
Q: In what sheet sizes is Teslin substrate available? Can I get order custom sheet sizes?

Q: What is Teslin substrate?
Teslin substrate is a unique synthetic paper that is used globally for commercial and specialty print applications requiring durability and security. Formulated with a polyolefin/silica matrix to create a single-layer, microporous material, Teslin substrate locks inks, toners, adhesives, coatings and laminating films into its structure, creating strong, virtually indestructible bonds and related performance benefits that other synthetic substrates cannot replicate. To learn more about Teslin substrate, click here

Q: How is Teslin substrate different from other synthetic papers?
Teslin substrate is formulated with a microporous polyolefin/silica matrix that imparts an exclusive combination of properties related to printability, durability and security. For instance, the material’s ability to absorb inks and toners locks printed text and photos into the surface of the substrate so that critical information printed on cards, tags, labels and documents fabricated with Teslin substrate cannot be removed or altered. With other synthetic substrates, inks and toners lay on the surface of the material, making them easy to scratch off. Teslin substrate also is more printable than other synthetic substrates. Because of its high absorption capacity, Teslin substrate dries quickly and requires no special inks, which enables it to perform more like paper than other synthetic substrates. The material’s thermal stability and durability also make it compatible with more print technologies than similar synthetic papers and printable plastics. As a result of this unique and exclusive combination of performance characteristics, researchers and product developers often find that, in addition to delivering high-quality print materials, Teslin substrate enables innovative products and solutions outside the realm of print.

Q: How is Teslin substrate used?
Teslin substrate is engineered for print applications demanding exceptional durability and long-term protection of text, bar codes, photos and other embedded data. Common applications include laminated cards and key tags; RFID-embedded Smart Cards; pressure-sensitive/self-adhesive labels; tamper-resistant, track-and-trace labels; food and pharmaceuticals packaging; and common specialty and commercial printing applications such as maps, menus, signs, point-of-purchase displays and more. To learn more about these applications, click here. Teslin substrate also is a product of choice for secure credentials and laminated cards ranging in sophistication from basic library, loyalty and insurance cards to advanced high-security identification cards and biometric e-Passports.

Q: Does Teslin require special inks like other synthetic papers?
No. When it comes to printing, Teslin substrate performs very much like paper. Click here to find exact production specifications, including recommended inks. 

Q: Is Teslin substrate laser-printable?
Yes. Teslin substrate is unique among synthetic papers and printable plastics for its ability to withstand extreme temperatures that may cause others to melt or lose form. Here is a link to guidelines for using Teslin substrate with digital printing processes

Q: Can I use Teslin substrate in our copier and office printer?
Yes. Unlike many other synthetic papers that melt due to the high temperatures generated by office equipment, Teslin substrate can withstand heat.

Q: In what sheet sizes is Teslin substrate available? Can I get order custom sheet sizes?
Teslin substrate is manufactured in standard sheet sizes and can be custom-ordered to requested sizes. Click here for more information.

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