Abstract: A release liner particularly adapted for use with a layer of a thermal interface material having a first surface and a second surface which is bondable to the heat transfer surface of a thermal dissipation member. The liner has an exterior surface and an interior surface disposable in adhering contact with the first surface of the thermally-conductive material. The liner interior surface has one or more first zones defined thereon which exhibit a first release value relative to the first surface of the thermally-conductive material, and one or more second zones bordered by the first zones which exhibit a second release value relative to the first surface of the thermally-conductive material which is lower than the first release value of the first zones.