On the assessment of the surface quality of black print paper by use of a diffractive optical-element-based sensor

The quality of the optical surface of commercial paper after laser printing was investigated using a sensor based on a diffractive element. Using a ne w sensor set-up, it was possible to gain image information about reflection and transmission of light, at normal light incidence, from paper simultane ously. These two parameters were measured before and after laser printing. Image data revealed information about the gloss and surface roughness of pa per as well as the influence of the black ink used in printing.