Identify the compound
Laser response on plastics depends on the material formulation, including pigmentation. Supply the actual resin or compound designation where available. If the part is purchased from a molding supplier, ask for the relevant material information rather than identifying it by touch or appearance. Different colors of the same product should be reviewed as separate conditions.
Define the accepted appearance
State whether the mark is text, a logo or a machine-readable symbol. Include the available area, background color and any cosmetic restrictions. A sample should use the same molding process and finish as production. For a code, confirm the reading arrangement and any verification requirement instead of assuming that visible contrast proves scanner performance.
Treat material changes as process changes
A substitute resin, new colorant or revised surface texture can invalidate an earlier sample comparison. Include notification requirements in the production handoff. If the exact compound is unknown, say so before processing and arrange material identification and suitability review. Unknown materials should not be trialed simply because another part with a similar appearance marked well.
