Resistivity USA - Photography Terms & Glossary

Glossary Of Laser Engraving and Cut Terms [1]

Resistivity Resistivity is a measure of a material's ability to resist the flow of electrical current and is typically expressed in ohm-meters (Ω⋅m). In laser engraving, resistivity plays a critical role in determining the suitability of materials for engraving or marking applications, particularly those involving electrical conductivity of insulating properties. Materials with high resistivity, such as ceramics, glass, and certain polymers, tend to be more challenging to engrave due to their poor thermal conductivity and limited interaction with laser energy.
Conversely, materials with low resistivity, such as metals and conductive plastics, readily absorb laser energy and produce high-contrast markings or engravings with minimal heat-affected zones. Understanding the resistivity of materials helps operators select appropriate laser parameters and optimize engraving processes for optimal results and material compatibility.