Laminate is a thin clear (transparent) plastic or polypropylene film applied to a media (JetMount, polypro, paper etc.) providing protection against humidity, abrasion and other wear. It may also enhance existing color, providing a gloss or luster surface appearance.
Measured in mils (or thousands of an inch), a variety of laminating films are available. Less expensive film excludes UV inhibitors and may be prone to early pealing or perhaps discoloration. Film laminates interact with porous and nonporous surfaces differently. Cold lamination with a strong adhesive may therefore be required on nonporous surfaces. Special low-temperature 3-mil film laminates used by Reactive Imaging include UV inhibitors to prevent ink evaporation from digital prints and help prolong durability when exposed to indirect sunlight. When media is laminated on both sides, it is said to be encapsulated.
Liquid laminates obviously provide less protection than film. Yet they defend against mild surface abrasions. Liquid lamination is used on gloss prints to prevent metameric failure. It is also used to preserve canvas artwork normally exposed to air.