A Review of Offset Linting Evaluation

A review of the literature in the field of linting evaluation is presented. The terminology is defined and lint problems explained in terms of paper surface defects, print defects, pressroom problems, lint composition, and fiber length distribution of the lint. The most important lint tests are described, and the most common test conditions specified. In order to discuss the respective value of each test when compared to offset printing, existing lint tests are classified as either non-offset or true offset printing tests with a special emphasis on bench testing. Non-offset printing tests are further differentiated as a function of the type and level of force acting on the paper surface. The correlation - or lack thereof - between some linting tests and commercial linting is also discussed.