What characteristic defines a lamination in materials?

A lamination in materials is characterized by flat and parallel separations between layers. This phenomenon typically occurs when two or more layers of material are bonded together but experience separation due to factors such as moisture, temperature changes, or mechanical stress. The planar nature of these separations often runs along the length of the material, creating distinct layers that can be easily identified during inspection.

Recognizing these flat and parallel separations is critical for evaluating material integrity and understanding potential failure modes, as they can affect the performance and strength of the material under load. This characteristic is essential for various applications, especially in composite materials, where optimal bonding between layers is necessary for achieving desired mechanical properties.