Patent ID: 8685623

Claim:
A method of imaging a lithographic printing member, the method comprising the steps of: (a) providing a lithographic printing member comprising (i) a first layer presenting a hydrophilic or oleophobic lithographic affinity, (ii) a second layer comprising a polymeric matrix and, dispersed therein, nonconductive carbon black particles at a loading level sufficient to provide at least partial layer ablatability, and (iii) a third layer presenting an oleophilic lithographic affinity, the second layer being disposed between the first and third layers; (b) exposing the printing member to imaging radiation in an imagewise pattern so as to at least partially ablate the second layer where exposed and thereby de-anchor the first layer therefrom; and (c) subjecting the printing member to an aqueous liquid to remove imaged portions of the second layer, thereby creating an imagewise lithographic pattern on the printing member.