Well, I can't offer an explanation, but here's an AU site that at least uses the term in connection with printing:

http://www.kwdoggett.com.au/product/listBrandsForCategory.as...

However, please note that all other occurences I've looked at via Google seem to be errors for 'desensitizing', so this might be as well?

Seems to be something to do with multipart carbonless forms, perhaps it has to do with avoiding unwanted transfer of impression between copies, for example?

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Note added at 8 mins (2005-05-05 22:37:12 GMT)
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Yep, it certainly looks like a typo! Try this link, for example:

AERO,dd -
... such area can be made insensitive by printing it with a desensitising ink. Desensitising ink is a special printing ink which prevents copying on CF ...

www.aero.si/ps/ac_print.htm


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Note added at 11 mins (2005-05-05 22:39:57 GMT)
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Here\'s the relevant explanatory text from the above link:


Desensitisation

If it is required that some part of the form is to be without copying ability, such area can be made insensitive by printing it with a desensitising ink.

Desensitising ink is a special printing ink whitch prevents copying on CF side of the sheet. It is applied only to the front side of CF or CFB sheet but never on CB sheet.

Desensitising ink can be printed on web and sheet offset machines in wet or dry techniques. When printing letterpress it is recommended to use rubber cliches or minimum pressure which still assures good imprint but prevents rupturing of the microcapsules on the back side of the CFB sheet.

Desensitising ink is usually printed on the last printing unit or as a final print on one colour machines. The thickness of the desensitising ink is of major importance. Very thin ink does not assure complete desensitisation, while too thick inking can cause migration or set-off. We recommend that you start printing with a minimum coating and increase it according to the test results of desensitisation.

Testing of desensitisation is performed one minute after printing by writing on CB sheet and evaluating the degree of desensitisation. In case the copy is still visible the coating of desensitisation ink must be increased but when no copy is visible optimum coating has been obtained and you can start printing. It is important to check the blocking results and pay attention to ensure a constant and even application of the ink.

When using desensitising ink it is better not to have polyurethane cylinders.

Desensitising ink has a shelf life of 2 years if stored at normal conditions and in well closed packaging.