Process for electrochemically graining steel plates used as offset printing plate supports, and an electrolyte solution suitable for the process

摘要

Disclosed is a process and an electrolyte solution for electrochemically roughening steel-based supports for offset printing plates. The treatment is carried out in a hydrochloric acid electrolyte which comprises at least one wetting agent inhibitor. As a result, a uniform surface topography of the plates is achieved, while largely avoiding the formation of scars. The roughened plates are corrosion-resistant and can be coated either directly or indirectly after first treating the plates to render them hydrophilic.