Abstract:
A shapeable matrix is provided for use in making of graphic art reproductions and in particular as a mold in forming of printing plates and other marking items.
Abstract:
A matrix material comprises a sheet of fibrous cellulosic material impregnated with a thermosetting resin, a coating of a thermosetting resin on one surface of said sheet, and a pre-cast sheet of polypropylene film affixed to the coated side of the impregnated cellulosic sheet with an adhesive.
Abstract:
A matrix coating system and method of manufacture thereof is presented wherein the matrix coating contains chemical blowing agents which permit low pressure molding and also the formation of printing plates having deep relief. The method of manufacture is such that a foamed coating is produced which at molding temperatures is highly compressible at low pressures and which also expands into the relief or nonprinting regions of the pattern plate. The unusually low molding pressures necessary result in less distortion of rubber pattern plates or made from photo polymers. In addition, the combination of high compressibility in appropriate areas, and of volume expansion in relief areas allows the board coating to conform before and during cure to pattern plates of deep relief, so that in the cured state there results a rigid, durable high fidelity mold useful for molding numerous flexographic printing plates.