Laser marking and engraving have played an increasingly important role in modern industry. This kind of processing method has many advantages such as: the pattern can be beautifully drawn with a computer, the mark is permanent and durable, the mark is perfect and so on. The basic principle of laser marking/engraving is that the laser energy causes the material to change or evaporate to form an obvious mark. However, what people often overlook is the effect of this effect and the relationship between laser wavelength and material. Not all materials can absorb all laser wavelengths, that is not a laser wavelength is suitable for all materials, according to laser processing and Material science research point of view:

Practical objects for laser wavelengths:

IR Series (1064nm or 1053nm): Metals, Plastics, Polycarbonates, Bakelite, ABS, Oxidation/Coloring Materials;
Green Series (532nm or 527nm): Highly reflective metal (copper/brass), ceramics, foils, plastics, silicon, composites, etc.;
UV/Deep UV Series (355, 351, 266, 263nm): Glass, tissue material, nylon, polyethylene and other plastic products;
CO2 Series (10600nm): Glass, Wooden Blocks, Rubber, Leather, Cardboard, PVC

Source: Beijing Orland Technology Development Co., Ltd.