Aug 11, 2006. /Lesprom Network/. Ahlstrom, a leader in high performance fiber-based materials, today announced the launch of an innovative pre-impregnated decor paper, specially designed for the production of decorative laminates. This new base paper reduces the quantity of resins needed during impregnation, resulting in a faster and simpler production process. The new pre-impregnated decor paper launched by Ahlstrom allows a reduction in the consumption of melamine resins of up to 50% during post-impregnation when producing melamine films. When considering the rising price of melamine resins, this new base paper for decor printing can be seen as an economical alternative solution to traditional melamine papers. "In addition to resin savings, our innovative décor paper can be processed at almost double the speed during the impregnation phase when compared with existing melamine impregnated décor papers. As the quantity of resins is reduced, the drying phase is also shortened. With the continuously increasing cost of energy, our customers see this product as an innovative way to improve production efficiency." explains Hans-Gerd Fischer, product line manager Decor Paper. Kaefoflex HPO, Ahlstrom's new pre-impregnated base paper for decor printing ensures perfect printing results and reliability during the lamination process. It is available in basis weights from 60 gsm to 90 gsm, and is manufactured on the most efficient paper machine in the market, at the Osnabrück plant, Germany. This plant is part of the Technical Papers business area of Ahlstrom. One of the European's leading producers, Ahlstrom has more than 25 years of experience in supplying the furniture and wood-panel industry with pre-impregnated base paper for finish foils. By entering the melamine film market with its new Kaefoflex HPO, Ahlstrom demonstrates its unique expertise and capacity to innovate in the specialty papers market.