printthrough

Printthrough refers to the unintended appearance or transfer of an image, pattern, or signal from one surface to another, resulting in a ghost image visible on a reverse or adjacent surface. The term is used in several industries, including magnetic tape, textiles, and print media, with the specific manifestation varying by context.

Magnetic tape: In analog magnetic tape, printthrough is a ghost of previously recorded material that can appear on playback as a pre-echo or post-echo. It arises from residual magnetization transferring between layers or wraps of the tape and can be influenced by aging, storage conditions, and humidity. The effect is more noticeable at higher recording densities or with poorly stored tapes. Prevention focuses on proper storage (cool, dry conditions), careful handling and winding, and using tapes designed to minimize printthrough.

Textiles and fabrics: In printed textiles, printthrough occurs when ink or dye from the front side shows through to the back side of the fabric, often because the fabric is thin, translucent, or the ink is highly opaque. Factors such as fiber content, weave, finishing, and dye formulation contribute. Mitigation includes using heavier or more opaque fabrics, adjusting printing inks or coatings, or applying back-side finishes to reduce translucency.

Paper and print media: In offset and other printing on paper, printthrough can occur when ink bleeds through the paper or a ghost image from the opposite page is visible. Causes include paper weight and porosity, humidity, and ink saturation. Remedies include selecting heavier or more opaque paper, improving drying, using coatings, and adjusting ink formulations or press settings.

Printthrough is generally considered a defect or artifact, and controlling materials and environmental conditions is key to reducing it.