MAR Resistance of Publication and Self Covers Produced by Web Heatset Printing with UV Coating Applied In-Line - The Key..., 1996 International Printing & Graphic Arts Conference Proceedings

Eugene Brandon

Sun Chemical Corp. Research

Cover marring (scratching) has been a principal reason for the rejection of publicatlons, annual reports, and brochures at the point of use. In this paper, we will present the results of laboratory experiments which identify key factors in the cover manufacturing process that contribute to marring of the finished product. We will present data which identifies the key characteristics of the product’s raw materials and the controllable process factors used in cover manufacture. Two test methods will be discussed. The first, may be used to characterize paper coatings according to their propensity to enhance or detract from a cover’s potential scratch failure. The second may provide a useful method, applicable at press side, to assess a cover’s potential scratch resistance at a time when corrective measures may still be taken, should a potential failure be recognized. The critical characteristics of the inks, paper, and UV coatings are described, as well. The work provides support for the hypothesis that failure of these covers to resist marring in use may be associated with the presence of ink solvent retained in the paper coating after ‘drying' the heatset ink’s print.