Deglossers

Deglosser is a term used to describe a chemical agent or mechanical device designed to remove or reduce the glossy surface of a material. In publishing and printing, deglossers are applied to printed images or documents to dampen surface sheen, thereby improving the quality of photographic reproductions and reducing glare for digital scanning or color printing. The process is also known as “deglossing” and is routinely used in the prepress stage of printing pipelines.

In restoration and conservation, deglossers help prepare antiqued surfaces or historical manuscripts for treatment. By neutralizing over-illumination and thin glossy coatings, conservators can better analyse pigments and fiber composition with spectroscopic methods. In the automotive and industrial coatings sector, deglossing agents are applied to paint layers before primer or topcoat application to improve adhesion. Common deglossers contain solvent-based or water-based formulations, and may be formulated with surfactants to enhance wetting of the target surface.

Deglossers can be available as liquid solutions, impregnated wipes, or mechanical abrasion tools. While they are effective in removing surface gloss, their use requires careful handling due to potential solvent fumes and environmental concerns. Regulations in many jurisdictions govern the composition and disposal of deglossing agents, encouraging the development of biodegradable and low-toxicity alternatives.