Abstract: In a system and process for developing an imaged plate by contacting the plate with an alkaline developer, contained in a developer tank having a cover spaced over the developer level, the space between the developer level and cover is maintained at a concentration of carbon dioxide below ambient for a substantial portion of each day. Preferably, active carbon dioxide control is implemented in the space at least during idle periods, to maintain the concentration of carbon dioxide below about 100 ppm, preferably in the range of 0-10 ppm. The system has a first conduit with an extraction port in the space and a second conduit with a return port in the space. A canister or closed vessel of carbon dioxide scavenger material in the form of pellets or a strong alkaline solution, is fluidly connected between the conduits.

Abstract: In a system and process for developing an imaged plate by contacting the plate with an alkaline developer, contained in a developer tank having a cover spaced over the developer level, the space between the developer level and cover is maintained at a concentration of carbon dioxide below ambient for a substantial portion of each day. Preferably, active carbon dioxide control is implemented in the space at least during idle periods, to maintain the concentration of carbon dioxide below about 100 ppm, preferably in the range of 0-10 ppm. The system has a first conduit with an extraction port in the space and a second conduit with a return port in the space. A canister of carbon dioxide scavenger material is fluidly connected between the conduits. A motorized air handling device fluidly connected with the conduits and scavenger material, draws air out of the space, passes the drawn air through the canister, and delivers the scavenged air back into the space.

Abstract: The water-loving properties of an anodized aluminum lithographic surface are enhanced or restored by treatment with a solution containing a monomeric, organo-phosphonic acid chelating compound or salt thereof. Such treatment can take place following, during or in lieu of the treatment of anodized aluminum in web form with an alkali metal silicate in the process of manufacturing printing plates. Alternatively, the treatment can be carried out as a plate is developed and/or prepared for the press. In a third approach, an organo-phosphonic acid chelating compound can be incorporated into a fountain solution, ink or correction fluid.

Abstract: The water-loving properties of an anodized aluminum lithographic surface are enhanced or restored by treatment with a solution containing a monomeric, organo-phosphonic acid chelating compound or salt thereof. Such treatment can take place following, during or in lieu of the treatment of anodized aluminum in web form with an alkali metal silicate in the process of manufacturing printing plates. Alternatively, the treatment can be carried out as a plate is developed and/or prepared for the press. In a third approach, an organo-phosphonic acid chelating compound can be incorporated into a fountain solution, ink or correction fluid.

Abstract: The water-loving properties of an anodized aluminum lithographic surface are enhanced or restored by treatment with a solution containing a monomeric, organo-phosphonic acid chelating compound or salt thereof. Such treatment can take place following, during or in lieu of the treatment of anodized aluminum in web form with an alkali metal silicate in the process of manufacturing printing plates. Alternatively, the treatment can be carried out as a plate is developed and/or prepared for the press. In a third approach, an organo-phosphonic acid chelating compound can be incorporated into a fountain solution, ink or correction fluid.