Paper Surfaces Absorb Ink- Some More-Some Less
The Paper Surface
The Characteristics And Absorptivity Of The Paper Surface
Besides whiteness and brightness, the degree of smoothness of the printing surface influences the appearance of ink placed on it. A rough fibrous paper surface is composed of a multitude of non-uniform reflecting surfaces. When light strikes them, they scatter it randomly and, thus, adulterate the print with white light. A black solid or halftone for example, is grayed because of this addition of uncontrolled and unwanted white light. A colored solid or halftone is not only grayed but also tends to change its hue.
Paper Surface Reflection
Smooth coated surfaces with fibers buried under layers of pigment minimize light interference
by allowing uniform directional reflection of light.
As a rough surface contributes to color degradation, so does an excessively absorbent- or “open”-surface. An open surface may absorb the ink vehicle and pigment, but leave dull pigment particles on the surface. (Figure 20)
A surface with good ink holdup-a “tight” surface- retains both vehicle and pigment on the surface with the pigment “buried” in the glossy vehicle.
Only enough vehicle penetrates the surface to provide good bond of ink to paper. Ink gloss contributes to purity of printed ink color. Paper smoothness contributes to ink gloss. (Figure 21)
Accurate glossy color results may be obtained on some dull coated and embossed coated papers. Even though the papers are not glossy their surfaces are so refined that- even over the surfaces of the relatively large hills and valleys of embossed finishes- a gloss layer of ink may be supported. Sufficient vehicle is supported as a smooth film to maintain the color purity of the pigments immersed in it.
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This presentation has been prepared by Robert Kennedy, marketing director of http://www.weprintcolor.com. The information was obtained from SD Warren Company, bulletin #2 ‘The Influence of Paper on Color Printing’ 1987. Thanks to high quality papers, inks and protective varnishes we are able to bring you this presentation scanned January 2005 from original publication. Decades later this printed publication remains preserved. |
About The ComposerRobert is regarded as an industry expert in Commercial printing and design. Online since 1999, Robert is one of the pioneers that spearheaded online graphic design from templates tools to the web. For web-based graphic design ideas visit WePrintColor.com . Robert also has an extensive background in website analytics and online traffic strategies. He covers all aspects of graphic development, deployment, digital media and website development. |
