The thin emulsion of the photograph would begin to separate from the paper backing.
The scratches let the steam penetrate to the paper backing, softening it.
Some very early cigarette cards were printed on silk which was then attached to a paper backing.
It usually has a paper backing and an adhesive designed to remove from surfaces (within a limited time).
In most cases where the material has a paper backing, the backing is pasted.
Unlike the other Anaglyptas, they have a flat paper backing, making them easier to apply and also to strip.
All you have to do is peel off the protective paper backing, then press the tiles into place.
Turning it over, I examined the brown paper backing.
It can be used to sand any material and is available with either paper backing or cloth.
Scratchboard itself comes either with a paper (cardboard) backing, or a hardboard.