Abstract: Decorative laminates which provide a decorative effect similar to that of marble or synthetic marble are achieved by constructing the core from sheets having a very low opacity. These sheets are prepared from bleached Kraft pulp and do not contain titanium dioxide or other opacifying pigments. The core sheets are saturated with resins such as melamine formaldehyde, polyester or epoxy resin. These saturating resins approximately match the refractive index of the bleached Kraft pulp and provide a translucent effect. Core sheets may be assembled with conventional decor sheets and an abrasion-resistant overlay to provide decorative laminates. Due to the translucent nature of the core, the color of the decor sheets is shown throughout the thickness of the laminate. This results in a uniquely decorative edge.

Abstract: Abrasion-resistant overlay and multiple layer decor paper sheets suitable for the production of decorative laminates are disclosed comprising an agglomerated abrasion-resistant amorphous silica powder. These overlays and decor sheets reduce caul plate scratching during lamination.