One of the main issues in graphic reproduction is to ensure high quality level of prints throughout whole print run. There are many factors which could cause degradation of the quality level among other is quality of the printing plate. to achieve hig quality prints in lithography, where difference of the image and nonimage areas of the printing plate is achieved through opposite physical-chemical properties, is essential to ensure optimal film of fountain solution on nonimage areas before application of printing ink on printing plate . The aim of this paper was to determine wetting properties of the nonimage areas of the printing plate in relation to the print run size. Measurement of the surface free energy of investigated surfaces was made to characterize nonimage areas. In addition, to determine functionality of those surfaces, measurement of contact angle by applying fountain solution. Results of the measurement showed that print run has significantly influenced functionality of nonimage areas.

Physics,Graphic technology