Lithographic plates made of aluminum foil are in widespread use throughout the world. Aluminum is uniquely suited to this application. Its strength resists scratching and dimensional change on the press and register can be maintained throughout the press run. Aluminum takes a fine sharp grain which produces the high quality half tones so important in color printing. The grained aluminum surface is naturally water receptive and the non-image areas respond more readily to desensitizing treatment. Therefore, plates stay cleaner on long press runs and require less attention by the pressman. The light weight of aluminum makes the plates easier to handle and store without damage, a particular advantage on large presses, on which sheet aluminum plates are used. This combination of properties, strength, stability, durability, light weight and surface response makes aluminum the ideal material.