Abstract: A donor element useful in an assemblage for imaging by exposure to radiation comprises a substrate, a transfer-assist layer disposed adjacent the substrate comprising one or more water-soluble or water-dispersible radiation-absorbing compound(s), and a transfer layer disposed adjacent the transfer-assist layer opposite the substrate.

Abstract: A lithographic printing plate precursor comprises a grained and anodised aluminium substrate which has been treated with a solution of water-soluble salt of a Group IVa metal fluoride and over which is provided a metallic layer, preferably a silver layer. Imagewise exposure of the precursor by means of a high intensity laser beam allows for the direct provision of press ready plates showing high image quality and clean background, good press properties and high durability on press, without the requirement for the use of intermediate film and developer chemistry. The plate precursors show enhanced sensitivity on exposure, whereupon removal of the metallic layer occurs in the exposed areas.