# 🤔 Materials that probably shouldn't be used

##### <span style="color: rgb(230, 126, 35);">There are some materials that, whilst not on the banned list,</span>  
<span style="color: rgb(230, 126, 35);">are problematic in other ways and should be avoided:</span>

[![Maybe.png](https://wiki.leicesterhackspace.org.uk/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/maybe-png.png)](https://wiki.leicesterhackspace.org.uk/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/maybe-png.png)

#### **Oily or resinous wood**

<p class="callout info">**Pine, cedar, eucalyptus or teak woods have a high resin or oil content and will char excessively. They may ignite easily. Use untreated hardwoods such as maple or birch instead.**</p>

#### **Reflective metals (not mirror-finished)**

<p class="callout info">**Aluminium, brass and copper may reflect the laser back along the optical path and cause damage to the machine. Metals will not cut using a CO<sub style="color: rgb(35, 111, 161);">**2**</sub> laser. If engraving, use a laser safe coating and lowest effective power.**</p>

#### **Corrugated cardboard**

<p class="callout info">**Air pockets within the corrugations increase fire risk. Monitor the cut or engraving carefully and continuously.**</p>

#### **Foam board (paper-foam-paper laminate)**

<p class="callout info">**Foamboard will cut nicely on the laser, but... The paper coating will scorch, and the foam layer will shrink away from the cut leaving unsupported edges. There is a greater risk of fire due to the lamination and melting plastic.**</p>

[**Poll icons created by Freepik - Flaticon**](https://www.flaticon.com/free-icons/poll)