Lithographic Printing Plate Ink Repellent Layer Elastic Modulus

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current lithographic printing methods face challenges in achieving high definition images with both high scratch resistance and ink repellency, as reducing silicone rubber thickness compromises durability and ink repellency, and existing solutions fail to balance these factors effectively.

Innovation Solution

A precursor for lithographic printing is developed, comprising a heat-sensitive layer and an ink repellent layer with a specific elastic modulus range and surface roughness, utilizing a silicone rubber structure derived from SiH group-containing compounds and vinyl group-containing polysiloxane, which maintains ink repellency and durability while allowing precise image reproduction.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If the thickness of silicone rubber is reduced to facilitate breakage, then high definition image reproduction is improved, but scratch resistance and printing durability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage reproduction precisionVSAvoidscratch resistance and printing durability
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention changes the elastic modulus parameter of the silicone rubber from its initial value to a specific range (0.01 to 0.5 MPa) to achieve optimal balance between breakability for image reproduction and durability for scratch resistance. This parameter optimization allows the silicone rubber to be thin enough for high definition printing while maintaining sufficient mechanical strength.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The invention uses composite materials by incorporating specific additives and crosslinking agents into the silicone rubber matrix. The composition includes silane-modified polysiloxane, crosslinking agents, and other functional additives that create a composite structure with enhanced properties, achieving both the required softness for breakage and the strength for durability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Manufacturing precision

If the thickness of silicone rubber is reduced to facilitate breakage, then high definition image reproduction is improved, but ink repellency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveimage reproduction precisionVSAvoidink repellency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The invention optimizes the elastic modulus parameter within the specific range of 0.01 to 0.5 MPa, which directly affects both the breakability and ink repellency of the silicone rubber. This controlled parameter change ensures that the silicone rubber maintains adequate thickness for ink repellency while being thin enough for high definition image reproduction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The invention applies local quality by creating different functional zones within the silicone rubber layer. The surface region maintains ink repellent properties while the bulk provides mechanical strength, achieved through controlled crosslinking and composition gradients that allow simultaneous optimization of both functions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Strength

If silicone oil is incorporated in the silicone rubber to improve scratch resistance, then scratch resistance is improved, but printing durability is often insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescratch resistanceVSAvoidprinting durability
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDuration of action of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The invention uses a composite material system that combines silicone rubber with specific crosslinking agents and functional additives. This composite structure provides scratch resistance through the silicone oil incorporation while maintaining printing durability through the crosslinked network structure that prevents degradation during the printing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The invention carefully controls the concentration and molecular weight parameters of the incorporated silicone oil to optimize the balance between scratch resistance and printing durability. By adjusting these parameters, the silicone oil provides surface protection without compromising the underlying structural integrity needed for long-term printing durability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The solution provides excellent printing durability and ink repellency, enabling high reproducibility of high definition images without compromising scratch resistance or ink repellency, suitable for both waterless and wet printing methods.

Implementation Method 1

the ink repellent layer has an elastic modulus of the plate surface under the surface load of 14000 N/m 2

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic modulus: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP3467587B1Lithographic printing original plate
Publication Date: 2024.10.23 TORAY INDUSTRIES INC
  • EP3467587B1 patent drawing
  • EP3467587B1 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a lithographic printing original plate having excellent printing durability, excellent ink repellency, and high reproducibility of a high-definition image. The lithographic printing original plate includes, at least: a thermosensitive layer; and an ink repellent layer, wherein when a load of 14000 N/m2 is applied to a surface of the ink repellent layer, the elastic modulus of the plate surface is 25-35 MPa.