Product Description
UPM Raflatac 303S Clear Matte Overlaminate - 3.0 Mil PVC with UV Protection - Anti-Glare Transparent Laminate for Professional Digital Print Protection
Sophisticated Matte Protection with UV Defense
UPM Raflatac 303S (303S-P3-HKL-GNE) is a premium 3.0-mil transparent matte overlaminate engineered to protect digital large format inkjet prints while providing a sophisticated, non-reflective finish. This self-adhesive monomeric soft-PVC film features built-in UV absorbers that shield your valuable graphics from sun damage and color fading, while the matte surface eliminates glare and reflections—making it ideal for photography-intensive applications, fine art reproductions, museum displays, and upscale retail environments. The crystal-clear transparency maintains true color reproduction without the shine of gloss laminates, providing an elegant, professional appearance that lets your graphics speak for themselves. With permanent clear adhesive that bonds securely (14 +/- 6 N/25mm), 3-year durability for indoor applications, excellent dimensional stability (>160% stretch at break), and superior tear resistance (>26 MPa), this professional-grade matte overlaminate delivers reliable protection for wide-format digital prints where a refined, glare-free finish is essential. Manufactured by UPM Raflatac Graphics Solutions to the highest quality standards, 303S represents proven matte protection technology trusted by professional print providers who demand both performance and aesthetic excellence.
The Matte Finish Difference
The transparent matte finish of 303S provides distinct advantages over glossy laminates:
Zero Glare & Reflections
Eliminates light reflections and glare that can obscure graphics in bright environments or under artificial lighting. Perfect for photography displays, museum exhibits, and retail windows.
Photography-Friendly
No hot spots or reflections when photographing graphics—ideal for social media, marketing materials, and documentation. Shoot from any angle without worrying about flash bounce.
Sophisticated Aesthetic
Elegant, refined appearance that conveys quality and professionalism. The subtle matte finish is perceived as more upscale and artistic than glossy alternatives.
Fingerprint Resistant
Matte surface is far less susceptible to showing fingerprints, smudges, and handling marks compared to gloss finishes—maintains clean appearance with minimal maintenance.
Reduced Eye Strain
Non-reflective surface is easier on the eyes for extended viewing, making it ideal for educational displays, informational graphics, and text-heavy signage.
Versatile Viewing Angles
Graphics remain clearly visible from all angles without the reflective distortions common with gloss laminates. Perfect for high-traffic areas and varied lighting.
Advanced UV Protection Technology
Built-in UV absorbers provide critical protection against sun damage:
- Color Fade Prevention: Shields inks from UV rays that cause fading and color shifts
- Extended Outdoor Life: Significantly prolongs outdoor graphic lifespan
- Vibrant Color Retention: Maintains original color brilliance over time
- Professional Longevity: Better ROI through longer-lasting graphics
- Indoor UV Protection: Guards against fading from windows and artificial lighting
Key Features
- 3.0 Mil Thickness: Substantial protection with excellent conformability
- Crystal Clear Matte: Transparent, non-reflective finish
- UV Absorbers: Built-in protection against sun damage and color fading
- Anti-Glare Surface: Eliminates reflections for optimal visibility
- Permanent Clear Adhesive: Strong, long-term bond (14 +/- 6 N/25mm)
- Monomeric Soft-PVC: Excellent conformability for flat surfaces
- 3-Year Durability: Inside applications and short-term outdoor (moderate climates)
- Excellent Dimensional Stability: >160% stretch at break minimizes shrinkage
- Superior Tear Resistance: >26 MPa for durability during handling
- Wide Temperature Range: Service temperature -22°F to +176°F
- UPM Raflatac Quality: Manufactured to highest quality standards
- 2-Year Shelf Life: Extended storage stability in original packaging
Applications
Photography & Fine Art
- Fine art reproductions
- Photography displays
- Gallery prints
- Museum exhibits
- Photographic portfolios
- Art show displays
- Limited edition prints
Museums & Galleries
- Educational displays
- Exhibit graphics
- Interpretive signage
- Historical displays
- Cultural exhibits
- Information panels
- Archival displays
Upscale Retail
- Luxury brand displays
- High-end window graphics
- Premium product photography
- Boutique signage
- Jewelry store displays
- Fashion retail graphics
- Sophisticated POP displays
Corporate & Professional
- Executive office graphics
- Professional presentations
- Corporate branding
- Conference room displays
- Architectural renderings
- Professional portfolios
- Client presentation materials
Hospitality
- Hotel artwork displays
- Restaurant décor
- Spa and wellness graphics
- Resort signage
- Lobby graphics
- Guest room artwork
- Fine dining photography
Trade Shows & Exhibits
- Professional booth graphics
- Product photography displays
- Upscale exhibit signage
- Portfolio presentations
- Demonstration graphics
- Architectural displays
- Technical presentations
Technical Specifications
Face Film
| Material: | Self-adhesive monomeric soft-PVC |
| Finish: | Transparent matte (anti-glare) |
| Thickness (Caliper): | 3.0 mil (TAPPI-411) |
| Stretch at Break (MD): | >160% (DIN EN ISO 527) |
| Tear Resistance (MD): | >26 MPa (DIN EN ISO 527) |
| UV Protection: | Built-in UV absorbers |
Adhesive (P3)
| Type: | Permanent |
| Composition: | Clear, permanent adhesive |
| Adhesive Strength: | 14 +/- 6 N/25mm (FTM 1, 24h on glass) |
Backing (HKL)
| Material: | Bleached kraft siliconized paper |
| Substance Weight: | 55 lbs/ream |
| Caliper: | 3.2 mil (TAPPI-411) |
Performance Characteristics
| Durability: | 3 years* (inside applications; short-term outdoor) |
| Rec. Application Temperature: | Minimum +10°F |
| Product Application Temp: | -22°F to +176°F |
| Shelf Life: | 2 years at 73°F/50% humidity in original packaging |
*Normal storage and handling conditions. For inside applications and short term for outside under middle-European climate conditions, unprinted.
Gloss vs. Matte: Which to Choose?
Choose MATTE (303S) When:
- ✓ Photography or artwork needs to be photographed
- ✓ Graphics displayed under bright lighting or windows
- ✓ Sophisticated, upscale aesthetic is desired
- ✓ Fingerprints and smudges are a concern
- ✓ Text-heavy graphics need easy readability
- ✓ Museum, gallery, or fine art applications
- ✓ Glare-free viewing from all angles is essential
- ✓ Reduced eye strain for extended viewing
Choose GLOSS (382S) When:
- ✓ Maximum color vibrancy is the priority
- ✓ "Wet look" enhances the graphic design
- ✓ High-impact, eye-catching appearance desired
- ✓ Traditional signage aesthetic preferred
- ✓ Lighting conditions are controlled
- ✓ Photography of graphics is not required
Comprehensive Protection
UV Damage Prevention
Absorbs harmful UV rays preventing fading, bleaching, and color shifts in printed inks.
Scratch & Abrasion Resistance
3.0-mil film shields prints from scratches, scuffs, and surface damage during handling.
Moisture Barrier
Protects prints from water, humidity, and environmental moisture damage.
Chemical Resistance
Shields graphics from cleaning products, mild chemicals, and environmental contaminants.
Fingerprint Resistance
Matte surface resists showing fingerprints and smudges better than gloss finishes.
Extended Graphics Life
Combined protection significantly extends the useful life of valuable prints.
Strong Permanent Bond
The P3 clear permanent adhesive system provides reliable long-term performance:
- High Adhesive Strength: 14 +/- 6 N/25mm ensures secure bonding
- Clear Composition: Transparent adhesive maintains graphic clarity
- Permanent Bond: Designed for long-term protection
- Universal Compatibility: Bonds well to most printed vinyl substrates
- No Edge Lifting: Strong adhesion prevents peeling
- Bubble-Free Application: Allows smooth installation
Perfect for Photography Applications
Photographers and artists choose matte laminates for critical reasons:
- No Flash Hot Spots: Photograph graphics without reflections or bright spots
- Any Angle Shooting: Capture images from any angle without glare concerns
- Social Media Ready: Graphics photograph beautifully for Instagram, Facebook, websites
- Portfolio Quality: Professional appearance in photographed portfolios
- Video Friendly: No reflections or glare in video productions
- Consistent Lighting: Matte surface doesn't create lighting challenges
- Professional Documentation: Clean photos for project documentation and archives
Excellent Dimensional Stability
Superior physical properties ensure reliable performance:
- >160% Stretch at Break: High elongation accommodates substrate movement
- >26 MPa Tear Resistance: Strong film resists tearing during installation
- Minimal Shrinkage: Excellent dimensional stability prevents distortion
- Temperature Stable: Performs from -22°F to +176°F
- Conformable: Monomeric soft-PVC adapts to flat and gently curved surfaces
Installation Best Practices
Before Installation
- Allow printed graphics to dry/cure thoroughly (48-72 hours for solvent inks)
- Ensure installation environment is at least +10°F
- Allow laminate to acclimate to room temperature
- Inspect printed graphic for defects
- Use clean, lint-free tools and gloves
Application Process
- Use professional laminating equipment for consistent results
- Cold lamination recommended
- Maintain consistent speed and pressure
- Use appropriate nip roller pressure
- Work out air bubbles immediately
- Trim excess cleanly for professional edges
Matte Finish Care
- Handle matte surface carefully—it shows marks more than gloss
- Use clean gloves during and after lamination
- Avoid touching matte surface with bare hands
- Store laminated graphics flat with protective interleaving
- Clean matte surface gently with appropriate cleaners
Maintenance & Cleaning
Cleaning Matte Laminated Graphics
Matte surfaces require gentler cleaning than gloss:
- Mild Soap Solution: Use diluted mild soap and water for routine cleaning
- Soft Cloth: Use only soft, non-abrasive cloths—never scrub pads
- Gentle Pressure: Wipe gently without excessive pressure
- Blot Dry: Pat dry rather than wiping to avoid surface scratching
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Don't use abrasive or strong chemical cleaners
- Test First: Always test cleaning method on inconspicuous area
Note: Matte surfaces are more delicate than gloss and require more careful cleaning to avoid surface damage.
Durability & Longevity
Indoor Applications: 3 Years
Optimal durability for interior graphics with UV protection from windows and artificial lighting.
Short-Term Outdoor: Moderate Climates
Suitable for temporary outdoor applications in middle-European climate conditions:
- Limited direct sun exposure
- Moderate temperature ranges
- Seasonal campaigns
- Event graphics
- Protected outdoor locations
Factors Affecting Durability
- UV Exposure: Direct sunlight reduces outdoor lifespan
- Climate: Extreme conditions affect performance
- Surface Orientation: Vertical surfaces last longer
- Ink System: UV and solvent inks provide best outdoor performance
- Maintenance: Proper gentle cleaning extends graphic life
Compatible Substrates
303S Clear Matte Overlaminate bonds securely to most printable vinyl substrates:
- ✓ Calendered print vinyls
- ✓ Cast print vinyls
- ✓ Monomeric print films
- ✓ Polymeric print films
- ✓ Inkjet printable vinyls
- ✓ Digital print media
- ✓ Solvent printable films
- ✓ Eco-solvent printable films
- ✓ UV printable vinyls
- ✓ Latex printable media
Always test compatibility with specific substrate before full production.
Storage & Handling
- Store at 73°F with 50% relative humidity
- Keep in original packaging until use
- Shelf life: 2 years from date of manufacture
- Protect from temperature extremes and direct sunlight
- Store rolls horizontally to prevent deformation
- Allow material to acclimate before use
- Handle with clean gloves to avoid fingerprints on matte surface
- Reseal partial rolls to prevent dust contamination
UPM Raflatac Graphics Solutions Quality
Manufactured to the highest quality standards with stringent quality controls:
- Premium Manufacturing: State-of-the-art production facilities
- Rigorous Testing: Comprehensive quality controls prior to dispatch
- Manufacturing Warranty: Defective materials replaced promptly
- Technical Support: Expert assistance for application questions
- Proven Performance: Based on extensive testing and practical experience
- Global Standards: Meets international quality requirements
Product Highlights
- ✓ 3.0 mil crystal clear matte overlaminate - sophisticated protection
- ✓ Anti-glare surface - zero reflections for optimal visibility
- ✓ Built-in UV absorbers - prevents color fading and sun damage
- ✓ Photography-friendly - no hot spots or flash reflections
- ✓ Fingerprint resistant - maintains clean appearance
- ✓ Permanent clear adhesive - strong bond (14 +/- 6 N/25mm)
- ✓ 3-year indoor durability - reliable protection for interior graphics
- ✓ Monomeric soft-PVC - excellent conformability
- ✓ >160% stretch at break - superior dimensional stability
- ✓ >26 MPa tear resistance - durable during installation and use
- ✓ Wide temperature range - -22°F to +176°F service temperature
- ✓ UPM Raflatac quality - manufactured to highest standards
Matte vs. Gloss: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | 303S Clear Matte | 382S Clear Gloss |
|---|---|---|
| Finish | Transparent Matte (Anti-Glare) | Transparent Gloss (High Shine) |
| Reflections | Zero glare or reflections | Reflective, shows light sources |
| Photography | Excellent - no hot spots | Challenging - requires careful lighting |
| Aesthetic | Sophisticated, refined, upscale | Vibrant, eye-catching, traditional |
| Fingerprints | Resistant to showing marks | Shows fingerprints easily |
| Viewing Angles | Clear from all angles | Can have glare at certain angles |
| Color Enhancement | True colors, subtle depth | Enhanced vibrancy, "wet look" |
| Best For | Fine art, photography, museums, upscale retail | General signage, retail POP, high-impact graphics |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the main advantage of matte over gloss laminate?
A: Matte laminates eliminate glare and reflections, making graphics visible from all angles in any lighting. This is critical for photography displays, museum exhibits, window graphics under bright lights, and any application where graphics need to be photographed. Matte also provides a more sophisticated, upscale aesthetic compared to glossy finishes.
Q: Can I photograph graphics laminated with 303S?
A: Absolutely! That's one of the primary advantages. Unlike gloss laminates that create reflections and hot spots, matte finish allows you to photograph graphics from any angle without worrying about flash bounce or glare. Perfect for social media, marketing materials, portfolios, and documentation.
Q: Will matte laminate make colors appear duller?
A: No. While colors won't have the amplified saturation of gloss finishes, the transparent matte preserves true, accurate color reproduction. Many professionals prefer this authentic color representation, especially for fine art and photography where color accuracy is paramount.
Q: Is matte laminate harder to clean than gloss?
A: Matte surfaces do require gentler cleaning techniques. Use mild soap and water with soft cloths, gentle pressure, and blotting motions rather than wiping. However, matte surfaces show fingerprints and smudges less readily than gloss, so they often need cleaning less frequently.
Q: Does 303S have the same UV protection as 382S?
A: Yes! Both 303S (matte) and 382S (gloss) feature built-in UV absorbers that protect prints from sun damage and color fading. The difference is purely in the surface finish—both provide excellent UV protection.
Q: When should I choose matte instead of gloss?
A: Choose matte when: graphics will be photographed, displayed under bright lights/windows, used for fine art or photography, need to convey sophistication, installed in museums/galleries, or any time glare-free viewing is essential. Choose gloss for maximum color pop and traditional signage applications.
Q: Can I use 303S for outdoor graphics?
A: 303S is rated for 3 years indoor and short-term outdoor use in moderate (middle-European) climates. For extended outdoor exposure in harsh conditions, consider premium outdoor-rated laminates designed for 5-7+ year outdoor durability.
Q: Will 303S work with my laminating machine?
A: Yes! 303S is designed for professional cold laminating equipment. Ensure proper nip roller pressure and consistent speed. The matte surface is more delicate than gloss, so handle carefully after lamination to avoid marks.
Q: How long should inks dry before laminating with 303S?
A: For solvent and eco-solvent inks, wait 48-72 hours for complete curing. UV and latex inks can typically be laminated immediately. Premature lamination causes silvering (cloudy appearance) and other adhesion issues.
Q: Does matte laminate reduce eye strain?
A: Yes! The non-reflective surface is easier on the eyes for extended viewing compared to reflective gloss finishes. This makes matte laminates ideal for educational displays, informational graphics, and text-heavy signage where readers will spend significant time viewing.
Q: Is 303S suitable for museum and gallery applications?
A: Absolutely! Museums and galleries often prefer matte laminates because they eliminate glare, allow photography of exhibits, provide authentic color reproduction, and convey the sophisticated aesthetic appropriate for fine art and cultural displays.
Q: Can I mix matte and gloss laminates in the same project?
A: Yes, many professionals use different finishes strategically within projects—gloss for high-impact graphics and matte for photography, fine art, or areas with problematic lighting. This creates visual variety and solves specific application challenges.
Quality Assurance & Warranty
UPM Raflatac Graphics Solutions materials are manufactured according to the highest quality standards and pass stringent quality controls prior to dispatch. Any material showing an evident defect of manufacturing will be replaced promptly without charge. Due to the wide range of different applications, preliminary tests are recommended for each new application. The UPM Raflatac Graphics Solutions technical department is pleased to assist with advice and technical support.
California Prop 65 Warning: This product may expose you to Di-isodecyl phthalate (DIDP; CAS RN: 26761-40-0), a substance known to the State of California to cause birth defect or other reproductive harm. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
