Traditional lamination has always been associated with mainly to preserve providing a crystal clear layer of protection and protect the graphics, document,,,etc from UV fading, moisture and abrasion. Lamination also protects the image from normal wear caused by dirt, pollutants, chemicals and nearly all solvents.

Lamination also makes the graphics, documents, photographs ,,,etc more colorfast, prolongs outdoor life, brightens colors and adds contrast, especially on electrostatic output.

In addition lamination allows for the ability to print a reverse reading image on paper , then transfer that image to film using a thermal laminator. In all laminating provides choices of use and finishes, regardless of output method.

Laminating films are available in Gloss, Matt, Anti-Scuff, Soft-Velvet, Hologram, Cold(self seal-using pressure sensitive adhesive), sticky back,,,etc with different colors and textured and colored patterns. Some films(Cold, Mounting) have adhesive(PSA) on the outside which allows the graphic to be face or back mounted at the point of use offering enhanced UV durability.

Laminating film thickness measured in MIL or MICRON, affects cost, rigidity, optical clarity and UV inhibition. Typically laminates are used on both front or back of image for protection, strength and to add rigidity.

A 250 MIC(10 MIL) of laminate for example can create a semi rigid product that does not require mounting but can still be rolled up for transportation.
The user should also bear in mind that images have a tendency to curl towards the thicker side, if laminates are not balanced in thickness.