The Donic Dotec True Carbon Inner - An overview
The German company Donic is also continuing the success story of its blades. The Donic Dotec True Carbon Inner is another product that continues two success stories. On the one hand, this is the proven and clever veneer construction as with the True Carbon Inner, and on the other hand, the cork handle typical of the Dotec series is offered. This results in several advantages, which we would like to present to you in more detail. It is important for us to emphasize that we are not simply copying manufacturer texts!
Let's start with the cork handle coating. Cork is the bark material of mainly the cork oak, although in Asia there is also the so-called Amur cork tree. Interestingly, cork is hardly flammable and at the same time provides good thermal insulation. With a rather low density (250 kg/m3), cork is also lightweight. These properties are positive for a table tennis blade. The weight distribution is therefore not too heavy on the handle, nor does the overall weight increase too much; and cork feels pleasantly warm when held in the hand, as the body heat given off by the hand is only poorly transferred. Another special feature of the handle is that it is curved and made from a single piece. This makes it even more comfortable to handle. There are separate versions for right-handed and left-handed players, and the Dotec blades are also generally produced without any interfering edges. This is already the tenth blade to be produced with this great grip - a clear sign of success!
Now let's take a look at the veneers and some more general information.
Further information on the Dotec True Carbon Inner
Generally speaking, this 7-ply blade is somewhat heavier than comparable models at 85-90 g, but not too heavy either. We find that it is therefore very comfortable in the hand. The playing direction of the Dotec True Carbon Inner can be described as controlled offensive (OFF-): So it definitely combines offensive potential with rock-solid control. As the name suggests, the carbon fibers are located on the inside (around the inner veneer). This ensures that the touch is somewhat softer and more sensitive. Another synthetic fiber, aramid carbon, on the other hand, provides power and penetration when necessary. Let's take a closer look at how the individual veneers contribute with their technical properties.
The veneers of the Dotec True Carbon Inner
First of all, it should be noted that this 7-layer wood is composed as follows: Kiri (core veneer), Hybrid Aramid Carbon (3+5), Ayous (2+6) and Koto (1+7 outside).
Kiri as the heart of this blade is a very light (density 300 kg/m3) and relatively soft (Janka hardness 250) material, which is native to central and western China, although such trees are now also occasionally “imported” here. Kiri is somewhat more aggressive than balsa, but still very controlled.
(Hybrid) Aramid Carbon is a synthetic fiber which, as already mentioned, has offensive properties. Such fibers are usually very strong and stiff, which explains their offensive properties.
Ayous, also known as abachi, is a tree native to tropical areas of West Africa. Ayous is harder (Janka: 430), heavier (350 kg/m3) and stiffer/firm than Kiri. It is therefore more offensive and dangerous, yet controlled and has good blocking properties.
Koto is a so-called classic veneer, which is known for its fast offensive and spin-friendly properties. This is due to its high hardness (Janka: 950) and high weight (590 kg/m3).