What to seal laser cut ply with that's fast+easy?

Discussion
1

I’m trying to make some gift boxes from laser ply - cut finger joints etc.

The issue is the charred edges have a tendancy to smudge and the ply generally takes dirt into it’s surface quite easily. Otherwise the surface of the ply looks great.

What’s a good thing to sort this with? I am keen to avoid sanding and ideally would like to apply just one coat to minimise time.

Thanks!

2

Shellac sanding sealer if you are not vegetarian and don’t mind the fumes (meths). Or quick dry acrylic varnish. Both will harden the wood fibres making the surface seem slightly more rough. ) You could then lightly rub with fine glasspaper or steel wool.) You can also try wax (eg Briwax) direct to the wood surface but this will need buffing after drying. Test each to see if they ‘smudge’ the charred edge before use on your project.

3

This looks useful

http://support.epiloglaser.com/article/8205/30190/easily-remove-engraving-residue-from-wood

4

If the edges are charred then the settings are probably not right. I had a very interesting conversation/lesson from an experienced laser mechanic/engineer/technician regarding settings, especially regarding ply. Apparently if the settings are too high and burning the wood then the laser needs more power as the smoke from the ply dissipates the laser reducing its cutting power. Reducing the power, keeping virtually the same speed and caused no blackening of the wood.