oSIST prEN 438-8:2026

SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-april-2026
Dekorativni visokotlačni laminati (HPL) - Plošče na osnovi duromernih smol
(laminati) - 8. del: Razvrstitev in specifikacije laminatov s posebnimi vzorci
High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based on thermosetting resins
(usually called laminates) - Part 8: Classification and specifications for design laminates
Dekorative Hochdruck-Schichtpressstoffplatten (HPL) - Platten auf Basis härtbarer Harze
(Schichtpressstoffe) - Teil 8: Klassifizierung und Spezifikationen für Design-
Schichtpressstoffe
Stratifiés décoratifs haute pression (HPL) - Plaques à base de résines
thermodurcissables (communément appelées stratifiés) - Partie 8 : Classification et
spécifications relatives aux stratifiés à effets de surface spéciaux
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: prEN 438-8
ICS:
83.140.20 Laminatne plošče Laminated sheets
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.

DRAFT
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
February 2026
ICS 83.140.20 Will supersede EN 438-8:2018
English Version
High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) - Sheets based
on thermosetting resins (usually called laminates) - Part 8:
Classification and specifications for design laminates
Stratifiés décoratifs haute pression (HPL) - Plaques à Dekorative Hochdruck-Schichtpressstoffplatten (HPL)
base de résines thermodurcissables (communément - Platten auf Basis härtbarer Harze (Schichtpressstoffe)
appelées stratifiés) - Partie 8 : Classification et - Teil 8: Klassifizierung und Spezifikationen für Design-
spécifications relatives aux stratifiés à effets de surface Schichtpressstoffe
spéciaux
This draft European Standard is submitted to CEN members for enquiry. It has been drawn up by the Technical Committee
CEN/TC 249.
If this draft becomes a European Standard, CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations
which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.

This draft European Standard was established by CEN in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other
language made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC
Management Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye and
United Kingdom.
Recipients of this draft are invited to submit, with their comments, notification of any relevant patent rights of which they are
aware and to provide supporting documentation.

Warning : This document is not a European Standard. It is distributed for review and comments. It is subject to change without
notice and shall not be referred to as a European Standard.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION

EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2026 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. prEN 438-8:2026 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.

Contents Page
European foreword . 3
1 Scope . 4
2 Normative references . 4
3 Terms, definitions and symbols . 4
3.1 General terms . 4
3.2 Types of high-pressure decorative design laminates . 5
3.3 Symbols . 6
4 Material types and classification system . 6
5 Requirements . 6
5.1 Compliance . 6
5.2 Inspection requirements . 6
5.2.1 General. 6
5.2.2 Colour, pattern and surface finish . 7
5.2.3 Reverse side . 7
5.2.4 Visual inspection . 7
5.3 Dimensional tolerance requirements . 8
5.3.1 Pearlescent laminates . 8
5.3.2 Metal laminates . 10
5.3.3 Wood veneer laminates . 12
5.3.4 Lacquered laminates . 14
5.4 Test requirements . 15
5.4.1 Pearlescent laminates . 15
5.4.2 Metal laminates . 17
5.4.3 Wood veneer laminates . 18
5.4.4 Lacquered laminates . 19
5.4.5 Additional requirements for type P high-pressure decorative design laminate . 21
5.4.6 Reaction to fire. 21
Annex A (informative) Information on reaction to fire. 22
Bibliography . 23

European foreword
This document (prEN 438-8:2026) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 249 “Plastics”,
the secretariat of which is held by SIS.
This document is currently submitted to the CEN Enquiry.
This document will supersede EN 438-8:2018.
— the test methods referenced have been updated as appropriate; the terms, definitions, symbols and
abbreviations are aligned with the other parts of the EN 438 series published; the machined
crosshead speed for the determination of the flexural characteristics, is the same of the one specified
in EN 438-4:2016.
— updating terms and definitions;
— adding “L – laquered laminate to high-pressure decorative design laminate classification system”;
— adding 5.3.4 “Dimensional tolerance requirements for lacquered laminates”;
— adding 5.4.4 “General requirements for lacquered laminates”.
The EN 438 series, under the general title High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on
thermosetting resins (usually called laminates), consists of the following parts:
— Part 1: Introduction and general information;
— Part 2: Determination of properties;
— Part 3: Classification and specifications for laminates less than 2 mm thick intended for bonding to
supporting substrates;
— Part 4: Classification and specifications for compact laminates of thickness 2 mm and greater;
— Part 5: Classification and specifications for flooring grade laminates less than 2 mm thick intended for
bonding to supporting substrates;
— Part 6: Classification and specifications for Exterior-grade compact laminates of thickness 2 mm and
greater;
— Part 7: Compact laminate and HPL composite panels for internal and external wall and ceiling finishes;
— Part 8: Classification and specifications for design laminates;
— Part 9: Classification and specifications for alternative core laminates.
1 Scope
This document specifies performance requirements for design laminates intended for interior use with a
design effect surface having a phenolic based core and a decorative surface not covered by EN 438-3 [1],
EN 438-4 [2], EN 438-5 [3] and EN 438-6 [4].
This document is applicable to the following surface layer types:
— metal surfaces;
— wood veneer surfaces;
— pearlescent decor surfaces;
— lacquered surfaces.
NOTE For the test methods relevant to this document, see EN 438-2.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 438-2:2016+A1:2018, High-pressure decorative laminates (HPL) — Sheets based on thermosetting
resins (usually called laminates) — Part 2: Determination of properties
EN ISO 178, Plastics — Determination of flexural properties (ISO 178)
EN ISO 1183-1, Plastics — Methods for determining the density of non-cellular plastics — Part 1:
Immersion method, liquid pycnometer method and titration method (ISO 1183-1)
3 Terms, definitions and symbols
For the purposes of this document, the terms and definitions given in EN 438-1 and the following apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminology databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp/
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
3.1 General terms
3.1.1
high-pressure decorative design laminate
design laminate
HPL
sheet consisting of decorative design surface layer(s) and core layers bonded together by a high pressure
process
3.1.2
surface layer
upper decorative layer consisting in one or more sheets of fibrous material (usually paper) impregnated
with aminoplastic thermosetting resins (usually melamine based resins)
Note 1 to entry: The surface layers appear on one or both side(s) of the laminate(s). They are not necessarily
treated with thermosetting resin. In case of one-sided laminates, the back of the sheet(s) can be made suitable for
adhesive bonding to a substrate.
3.1.3
core layer
fibrous materials (usually paper) impregnated with thermosetting resins (usually phenolic based resins)
3.2 Types of high-pressure decorative design laminates
3.2.1
pearlescent laminate
design laminate, the surface layer of which consists of a pearlescent effect decorative paper, which is
impregnated with aminoplastic thermosetting resins (usually melamine based resins)
Note 1 to entry: To achieve the optimum aesthetic effect from the pearlescent pigment a protective melamine layer
is not used.
Note 2 to entry: As a result some surface properties are reduced (e.g. scratch, wear), therefore it is recommended
that these products are used for vertical applications.
3.2.2
metal laminate
design laminate, the surface layer of which consists of a thin layer of metal
Note 1 to entry: Example: aluminium, steel or copper.
Note 2 to entry: It is often protected by a thin layer of lacquer or in the case of aluminium the surface can be
anodized. The surface performance and appearance of these metal laminates is equivalent to that of thin metal sheet.
Note 3 to entry: As some surface properties are lower than that of melamine (e.g. scratch and wear), it is
recommended that these products are used for vertical applications.
3.2.3
wood veneer laminate
design laminate, the surface layer of which consists of a wood veneer, which is covered by a protective
melamine layer
Note 1 to entry: The surface appearance of these wood veneer laminates is similar to wood.
Note 2 to entry: Wood veneer laminates are not normally available in postforming grade.
3.2.4
lacquered laminate
design laminate, the surface layer of which consists of a lacquer/coating
3.3 Symbols
For the purposes of this document, the following symbols apply:
t nominal thickness of the design laminate
4 Material types and classification system
High-pressure decorative design laminate is defined using a four-letter classification system as shown in
Table 1.
Table 1 — High-pressure decorative design laminate classification system
First letter Second letter Third letter Fourth letter
A Pearlescent laminate H Horizontal G General purpose S Standard grade
(HPL < 2 mm)
M Metal laminate V Vertical D Heavy duty P Post-formable grade
(HPL < 2 mm) (horizontal)
W Wood veneer C Compact   F Flame-retardant
laminate grade
L Lacquered laminate
Type S – Standard grade high-pressure decorative design laminate.
Type P – Post-formable high-pressure decorative design laminate, similar to type S but can also be
formed at elevated temperature.
Type F – High-pressure decorative design laminate with improved fire retardance similar to type S or P
but also complying with special requirements of specified tests which can vary according to the
application (e.g. construction, marine, transport) and the country of use (see 5.4.5).
In addition to the abbreviation “HPL” and the number of this document (i.e. EN 438-8), materials shall be
specified by the alphabetical classification system.
EXAMPLE “Pearlescent, horizontal, general purpose, standard grade” is designated as HPL/EN 438-8 AHGS.
5 Requirements
5.1 Compliance
High-pressure decorative design laminate classified in Table 1 shall comply with all appropriate
requirements specified in 5.2, 5.3 and 5.4. This applies to both full-size sheets and cut-to-size panels.
5.2 Inspection requirements
5.2.1 General
Inspection shall be carried out in accordance with EN 438-2:2016+A1:2018, Clause 4, at a distance
between 750 mm and 1 500 mm.
5.2.2 Colour, pattern and surface finish
5.2.2.1 Pearlescent
When inspected in daylight or D65 standard illuminant, as specified in EN ISO/CIE 11664-2, and also
illuminant A as specified in EN ISO/CIE 11664-2, a slight difference between the corresponding colour
reference sample held by the supplier and the specimen under test is acceptable.
As colour and surface finish are critical, it is recommended that sheets are checked for colour and surface-
finish compatibility without protective film before fabrication or installation.
Some of these products are directional in surface finish or colour and they shall be installed in the correct
orientation.
5.2.2.2 Metal
When inspected in daylight or D65 standard illuminant, as specified in EN ISO/CIE 11664-2, and also
illuminant A as specified in EN ISO/CIE 11664-2, a slight difference between the corresponding colour
reference sample held by the supplier and the specimen under test is acceptable.
As colour and surface finish are critical, it is recommended that sheets are checked for colour and surface-
finish compatibility without protective film before fabrication or installation.
Some of these products are directional in surface finish or colour and they shall be installed in the correct
orientation. Small indentations in the surface are unavoidable.
5.2.2.3 Wood veneer
Due to the fact that wood is a natural product, each veneer can be considered as unique. Slight colour and
structure differences are considered as normal. Singularities such as knots and resin inclusions are not
considered as defects, but as a part of the decor. There are differences in light fastness performances
depending on the wood species and the source of the wood.
5.2.2.4 Lacquered laminate
When inspected in daylight or D65 standard illuminant, as specified in EN ISO/CIE 11664-2, and also
illuminant A as specified in EN ISO/CIE 11664-2, a slight difference between the corresponding colour
reference sample held by the supplier and the specimen under test is acceptable.
As colour and surface finish are critical, it is recommended that sheets are checked for colour and surface-
finish compatibility without protective film before fabrication or installation.
Some of these products are directional in surface finish or colour and they shall be installed in the correct
orientation.
5.2.3 Reverse side
The reverse side of single-sided sheets shall be suitable for adhesive bonding (e.g. sanded). In the case of
sanded backs, slight chatter marks shall be permitted.
5.2.4 Visual inspection
5.2.4.1 General
The following inspection requirements are intended as a general guide, indicating the minimum
acceptable quality for laminates.
Cut-to-size panels and certain applications involving full-size sheets can call for special quality
requirements which can be negotiated between supplier and purchaser; in such cases the following
requirements can be used as a basis for agreement.
Only a small percentage of sheets in a batch (the level to be agreed with the customer) should contain
defects of the minimum acceptable level.
5.2.4.2 Surface quality
The following surface defects are permissible:
a) Dirt, spots, dents and similar surface defects.
2 2
The admissible size of such defects is based on a maximum contamination area equivalent to 1,0 mm /m
of laminate and is proportional to the sheet size under inspection.
The total admissible area of contamination may be concentrated in one spot or dispersed over an
unlimited amount of smaller defects.
b) Fibres, hairs and scratches.
The admissible size of defects is based on a maximum contamination length equivalent to 10 mm/m of
laminate and is proportional to the sheet size under inspection.
The total admissible length of contamination may be concentrated in one defect or dispersed over an
unlimited amount of smaller defects.
5.2.4.3 Edge quality
Visual defects (e.g. moisture marks, lack of gloss, corner damage) can be present on all four edges of the
laminate, providing the defect-free length and width are at least the nominal size minus 20 mm.
For compact laminates edge chipping up to 3 mm on each side is permissible.
5.3 Dimensional tolerance requirements
5.3.1 Pearlescent laminates
Dimensions of pearlescent laminates shall be tested in accordance with the test methods and tolerances
specified in Table 2 and Table 3.
Table 2 — Dimensional tolerance requirements for thin pearlescent laminates
Test method
(EN 438-2:2016
Property Tolerance
+A1:2018,
clause no.)
0,5 mm ≤ t ≤ 1,0 mm ±0,10 mm
Thickness (t) 5
1,0 mm < t < 2,0 mm ±0,15 mm
a
Flatness 9 ±60 mm/m
+10
b
Length and width 6 (nominal size)
mm
b
Straightness of edges 7 ±1,5 mm/m
b
Squareness 8 ±1,5 mm/m
a
Provided that the pearlescent laminates are stored in the manner and conditions recommended by the
manufacturer they shall comply with the flatness requirements specified in Table 2 when measured in accordance
with EN 438-2:2016+A1:2018, Clause 9.
b
Tolerances for cut-to-size panels are normally agreed between supplier and purchaser.
Table 3 — Dimensional tolerance requirements for compact pearlescent laminates
Test method
(EN 438-2:2016
Property Tolerance
+A1:2018,
clause no.)
2,0 mm ≤ t < 3,0 mm ± 0,20 mm
3,0 mm ≤ t < 5,0 mm ± 0,30 mm
5,0 mm ≤ t < 8,0 mm ± 0,40 mm
8,0 mm ≤ t < 12,0 mm ± 0,50 mm
12,0 mm ≤ t < 16,0 mm ± 0,60 mm
Thickness (t) 5
16,0 mm ≤ t < 20,0 mm ± 0,70 mm
20,0 mm ≤ t < 25,0 mm ± 0,80 mm
maximum variation to be
25,0 mm ≤ t agreed between supplier
and customer
2,0 mm ≤ t < 6,0 mm ±8,0 mm/
...