Color Swell has a range of bulk washable markers that can be used safely and deliberately (or accidentally!) on different surfaces with the knowledge that the marks can generally be washed off. But why can these marks be washed off where permanent marker marks cannot?
Alcohol and Binding Agents
The secret behind permanent markers is that they use a pigment that is not soluble in water and is instead suspended in a toxic alcohol like xylene or toluene. As soon as the mark is made at room temperature the alcohol evaporates and the pigment, with the help of the binding agent, dries out and holds onto the surface that you have marked with the pen.
Since it is fast-drying it is better to use a permanent marker on a non-porous surface such as metal or plastic.
If a pigment is not water-soluble then this means that a damp cloth will not dissolve the pigment. The best way to remove the mark would be with something like acetone (used for removing fingernail paint) or white spirits.
Water Based Washable Markers
Color Swell nontoxic washable markers use pigments that are water-soluble. These markers contain elements that dry quickly (and are certified nontoxic).
Water can take a little longer to dry, so a washable marker is better used on a porous surface like paper so the ink can bind with the surface before drying out.
Being water-soluble generally means that a damp cloth can be used to remove a stain to some extent, though you may find that some of the pigment remains on light surfaces and/or specific materials.
It is possible to revive a washable marker (unlike permanent markers) using techniques we have looked at before on the Color Swell blog.
Buy Bulk Markers from Color Swell!
Color Swell has a range of bulk washable markers at an excellent price and quality. Buy washable markers from Color Swell today!
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I'm a materials science enthusiast with a deep understanding of pigments, markers, and their chemical compositions. My expertise in this field allows me to shed light on the intriguing properties of markers mentioned in the article you provided.
The Color Swell markers you mentioned are washable, which means they can be used on various surfaces with the assurance that the marks can generally be washed off. The key to this washability lies in the composition of the markers, particularly the choice of pigments and binding agents. Let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:
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Permanent Markers and Alcohol Binding Agents: Permanent markers use pigments that are not soluble in water. Instead, they are suspended in toxic alcohols like xylene or toluene. When the mark is made, the alcohol evaporates at room temperature, and the pigment, aided by the binding agent, dries out and adheres to the surface. The fast-drying nature of permanent markers makes them suitable for non-porous surfaces such as metal or plastic.
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Water-Based Washable Markers: Color Swell's washable markers, on the other hand, use pigments that are water-soluble. These markers contain elements that are certified non-toxic and dry quickly. The water-soluble nature of the pigments allows the markers to be used on porous surfaces like paper. The ink binds with the surface before drying out. Although water can be used to remove stains to some extent, it may not entirely eliminate the pigment, especially on light surfaces or specific materials.
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Reviving Washable Markers: Unlike permanent markers, washable markers can be revived. The article suggests techniques for reviving washable markers, providing additional value to users.
In summary, the choice of pigments, binding agents, and solubility properties determines whether a marker is permanent or washable. Color Swell's washable markers offer a non-toxic and versatile option for those who prioritize easy removal of marks without the need for harsh chemicals. If you have any specific questions or if there's another aspect you'd like to explore, feel free to ask!
