Invention of Laminates-The Untold Story of a Laminate Manufacturer

Formica laminates are the concoction of melamine and phenolic resins. The benefit of using the resins is that they penetrate the sheets of paper easily which are later used to produce Formica. Formica laminates are used widely in a number of applications because of their resistance and resistance to stains. Besides, they are pleasing to look at and invariably enhance the area of application. But these Formica laminates which have taken the world by storm have a rather unusual story behind them. Yes, the story of a laminate manufacturer that you must absolutely know.

Where It Came From?

Do you wonder or are curious about the term Formica? Where did it come from? Who coined it why? Or more interestingly, how was laminate invented? How did the idea come about? There are so many things that define the emergence or introduction of a new concept. And in this case, it is equally interesting.

Formica laminates was the brainchild of two electric engineers Daniel O’Conor and Herbert Faber who made a fantastic discovery. They found out the wonders of high-pressure plastic resins. They also figured out that plastic resins could replace the mineral mica in insulation material for electrical parts opening a whole new arena for the manufacturing industry. In fact, this idea went on to transform the manufacturing scene thereafter.

Nomenclature Details

As far as the nomenclature is concerned, the two young engineers are known to have needed a substitute “for” mica, so they swapped in the plastic resins and thus came the name of the firm- Formica. They went on to get the patenting rights in 1913 officially kick-starting their business.

In the following eight years the engineers experimented with a number of styles and forms and finally in 1930, they made a gradual shift to decorative laminates. This was the initiation into the realm of decorative furniture as we see it today. All these eighty ninety years that followed witnessed huge transformations in the original approach to the designs of pressure laminates. The core features and foundations paved the way for massive improvements and improvisations.

Something For Everyone!

Owing to its great variety, Formica soon became a brand known for its durability, appearance and designing. Its accuracy to detailing along with providing the consumers a range of options to choose from worked in its advantage. Formica laminates slowly became the first choice for interiors of cafes, restaurants and the likes. The brand is also known to have outfitted the Library of Congress annex and Radio City Music Hall furniture.

During the world war, the company also forayed into making military parts of the bombs and wooden airplane propellers. This lasted till the end of the war in 1945. The war paved the way for a new lifestyle in the states which only led to the growth of Formica laminates. People started experimenting with the design laminates in their kitchens dinettes, making Formica their first choice. The period between 1950-58 is known to have witnessed massive strides in the sale of Formica laminates.

Slowly after that the brand emerged as the symbol of new aspirations and modern lifestyle. It resonated strongly with consumers who had a penchant for luxury. In fact, even during the tough period of economic instability (1989s and 1990s), the brand continued its global expansion program. it continued to launch new products and diversify its user base.

In 2013, the brand celebrated its 100^th anniversary a new tagline: Formica®. With newer inventions and an impressive legacy behind it, Formica laminates is not just a luxurious brand today but also one that ensures fine balance between class and affordability.