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Abstract

Process for preparing a flexographic photopolymer element by (a) passing into the nip of a calender a photopolymer composition mass comprising elastomeric binder, ethylenically unsaturated compound and photoinitiator and (b) calendering the photopolymer composition between a support and a multilayer cover element consisting essentially of a flexible cover film, optionally a flexible polymeric film, e.g., a polyamide, and a layer of elastomeric composition which is photosensitive or becomes photosensitive during or after calendering. At least the layer of elstomeric composition of the multilayer cover element is prepared by melt extrusion wherein mixing in an extruder is at 100.degree. to 300.degree. C. and after passing the hot melted mixture, e.g., at 100.degree. to 300.degree. C., into an extrusion die to form a layer, stretching the layer of extrudate to desired thickness, and applying onto a removable cover film. A flexible interleaf may be applied the bare surface of the extrudate layer. The element is useful for flexographic printing, e.g., dry offset, letterpress printing, etc.

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First Claim