| abstract |
A printing blanket having excellent dimensional stability, compressibility and web feed properties comprising a base layer (2), a compressible layer (7) overlaying the base layer (2), a stabilising layer of thermoplastic reinforced elastomer (8) overlying the compressible layer (7) and a printing surface layer (9) of substantially void free rubber. The thermoplastic reinforced elastomer is formed of fibers or fibriles of thermoplastic dispersed throughout the elastomer. Preferably the thermoplastic is molten when mixed with the elastomer in order to provide very fine, well dispersed fibriles. |