Effects of Calendering on Print Densities of Coated Paperboards

In this study, the effect of calendering on print quality was determined. For this purpose, five different pigment-coating formulations were prepared. They were coated on the surface of the base paperboard, previously coated with starch. Half of the coated base paperboards were calendered. Then, the Ugra82 (Ugra82 Plate Control Wedge) was printed on calendered and uncalendered-coated base paperboard surface by offset printing using black inks. All solid density measurements on the printed wedge were performed using a calibrated Gretag Mac- beth Spectrolino Spectrophotometer. Double coating of the base paperboard surface is important for printability. As a result of measure- ment, it was found that calendering increased the surface smoothness. The surface smoothness of coated paperboard increased as long as ink absorption reduced. Hence, density value augmented after calendering. Generally, the raise of the kaolin ratio in the coating formula- tions affected positively printability.