Print Mottle

Print mottle testingMottling is the uneven appearance of print, particularly in solid areas: small dark and light areas appearing in the surface of paper (board).

Print mottle is influenced by many parameters, but the most important one is the type of paper. Variations in the surface characteristics such as absorption and smoothness play an important role.

At Pira, the IGT AIC2-5 printability tester is used to simulate press conditions which cause the mottle of specific ink and paper combinations.

Pira also employs a range of image analysis techniques to investigate print mottle, ink spread and print sharpness relative to inkjet and laser print.

Expert Profile

  • Maggie is Principal Consultant for Print and Document Security and has over 30 years experience in the print industry with a broad knowledge of printing, finishing, foil blocking, inks and coatings. Experienced in problem solving and mediating in resolution of print-related issues. Maggie is also secretary of the Associates of Print and Paper Technologists (APPT).

    Maggie Carnegie
    Maggie Carnegie

    Pira International

    +44(0)1372 802158

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