Lithography

Lithography is a technique for printing on a smooth surface. It can be used to print text or artwork onto paper or another appropriate material. It can also refer to photolithography, a micro fabrication method used to construct integrated circuits and micro electromechanical systems. Lithography works because of the revulsion of oil and water. Lithography was invented by Alois Senefelder in 1798.

Lithography is a printing method that uses chemical processes to make an image. For instance, the positive part of an image would be a hydrophobic chemical, while the negative image would be water. Thus, when the plate is introduced to a companionable ink and water mixture, the ink will adhere to the positive image and the water will clean the negative image. This allows for a comparatively flat print plate which allows for much longer runs than the older physical methods of imaging (e.g., embossing or engraving).

current high-volume lithography is used to make posters, books, newspapers, packaging, credit cards, decorated CDs – just about any smooth, mass-produced item with print on it.