Explain the difference between release paper and release film in detail

In the field of materials science, the term “release” refers to a characteristic that enables the surface to have anti adhesive properties. This characteristic is achieved through coating, co extrusion, or lamination, making it easy for one layer of material to peel off from another without leaving any residue. Release paper and release film are two different product types based on this principle. This article will explore in detail the differences between these two and their characteristics in different applications. Definition and structural differences 1. Release paper is a type of paper coated with silicone oil or other chemicals on one side. This coating endows the paper surface with anti stick properties, making it easy to separate from other materials without leaving any marks. Usually, the other side of the release paper is untreated to maintain its original ink absorption and printing suitability for printing, marking, and other operations. 2. Release Film is a low viscosity substance, such as silicone resin, coated on one side of the film substrate. This type of film can be transparent or semi transparent, and can be subjected to varying degrees of transparency treatment as needed. Compared with other types of plastic films, release film is widely used due to its excellent anti stick performance. Performance Comparison 1. Thickness and Flexibility Release Paper: Due to its paper-based structure, release paper is usually thin and has a certain degree of flexibility, making it suitable for industries such as curled packaging. Release film: The thickness range of release film is wider, ranging from very thin transparent film to relatively thick protective film, and it has better tear resistance and durability. 2. Optical properties of release paper: Because it is made of paper, the optical transparency of release paper is relatively low, which may not be the best choice for some situations that require high transparency. Release film: Release film has higher optical transparency and can even achieve almost complete transparency, making it suitable for packaging or protection of optical products. 3. Applicable temperature release paper: It may deform or melt in high temperature environments, so its heat resistance needs to be noted in some industrial applications. Release film: Many release films are designed to work at higher temperatures and have certain temperature resistance. Application field 1. Label industry release paper: commonly used as the base paper for making self-adhesive labels, making it easy for users to remove the label from the paper and stick it on other surfaces. Release film: In some special purpose labels, such as fragile safety seals on medical devices, release film will be used as the carrier material. 2. Release paper in the electronic manufacturing industry: In the PCB production process, release paper is used as a covering film to protect copper foil from oxidation and other pollutants. Release film: In semiconductor packaging technology, release film can be used as a temporary support material during chip bonding process. 3. Release paper for the automotive industry: In the processing of automotive interior parts, release paper can help prevent adhesion between panels and provide convenience during assembly. Release film: In the surface protection of automobiles, release film can act as a protective film, avoiding scratches and damage to the paint surface. Although release paper and release film both utilize the anti stick properties of materials, they have significant differences in structure, performance, and application. The selection of a suitable product depends on specific application requirements, such as considerations of transparency, durability, flexibility, and heat resistance. In practical work, engineers and technicians should decide which material is more suitable based on specific circumstances.