BS EN 438-9:2017

What is BS EN 438‑9 - Alternative core laminates about ?  

BS EN 438‑9 is the ninth part of an international standard used for High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL).    

BS EN 438-9 specifies performance requirements for alternative core laminates intended for interior use, the core layer compositions of which are not covered by EN 438-3 [1], EN 438-4 [2], EN 438-5 [3], EN 438-6 [4] and EN 438-8 [5]. The core layer types (coloured core layer and metal reinforced core layer) are defined in this part of EN 438. 

Note: EN 438-2 specifies the test methods relevant to BS EN 438‑9. 

Who is BS EN 438‑9 - Alternative core laminates for ? 

BS EN 438‑9 on High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) is useful for: 

• Constructors of buildings and houses 
• Architects  
• Interior designers 

Why should you use BS EN 438‑9 - Alternative core laminates ?  

High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) are made up of several layers that are compressed (laminated) under very high pressure. These laminates are the most durable decorative surface materials.  

With the help of visual examination, you can identify the quality of decorative material used for alternative core laminates. Using BS EN 438-9, you can classify the material and requirements to be used and improve in the testing process. 

What’s changed since the last update ?  

BS EN 438-9:2017 supersedes BS EN 438-9:2010+A1:2013. BS EN 438‑9:2017 includes some technical changes with respect to BS EN 438-9:2010+A1:2013. These include: 

• Test methods have been updated 
• The resistance to surface wear section has been modified and the laminate grades corrected 
• For the Resistance to immersion in boiling water, the appearance has been improved for the Laminate grades 
• The tensile strength has been deleted to be in line with EN 438-4:2016 
• In Table 6, for the Resistance to crazing, the appearance of the laminate grade has been corrected