Permanent marker

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The "chisel tip" of a marker

Sanford King Size Permanent Marker

Sharpie brand permanent markers, one of the more popular models on the market.

A permanent marker is a type of marker pen that is used to create permanent writing on an object. Generally the liquid is water resistant, contains a solvent such as xylene, toluene, or alcohol and is capable of writing on a variety of surfaces from paper to metal to stone. They come in a variety of tip sizes (ultra fine to wide), shapes (chisel point, bullet tip, and wide bristle), and colors (metallic, non metallic, or ultraviolet reactive).

Like spray paint, these markers give off volatile organic compounds, which in some cases are toxic.

Some of the most recently made permanent markers are made from 88% recycled material.^{[citation needed]}

The permanent marker was invented in 1890.

[edit] Makeup of Ink

Permanent inks contain three main ingredients: colorant, carrier, and resin. A colorant, usually dyes or pigments, is what gives markers their permanence, and, of course, their color. A dye is usually a coloring material dissolved in water (or a solvent), making it a water soluble dye. On the other hand, a pigment is an insoluble coloring matter. Pigments are also finely ground solid materials and the amount as well as the nature determines its color.

Solvents are used as the carrier in permanent markers. Before the nineties, most markers were made out of foul smelling hydrocarbon organic chemicals, like xylene or toluene. Although these chemicals provide a desirable permanency, they are highly toxic. There has also been concern among users that they may damage plastic surfaces such as the back of a CD or DVD.^{[citation needed]} Today, xylene may be used in some markers (e.g. Sharpie King Size), but most markers are now replaced with an alcohol solvent. Alcohol, such as ethanol or isopropanol, is more environmentally friendly and even smells better. It also evaporates quickly, allowing permanent markers to dry faster.

The last component, resin, is a polymer that promotes adhesion. This also adds to the permanence of markers. The resin sticks like glue to most of the surfaces the marker is written on causing the pigment to attach to surfaces. As a result, everyone can easily write smoothly and clearly on both rough and smooth surfaces.

[edit] Removal

These markers are generally not truly permanent as, on most surfaces, they do not stain but form a surface layer that can be removed by high pressure cleaning or paint thinning solvents such as acetone, and they will eventually wear away over time. Some markers are designed to be long lasting, for instance by having two inks, one specialized to resist solvents, and one specialized not to fade.^{[citation needed]} These are primarily used in graffiti and can be available in refillable form.^{[citation needed]}

A permanent marker can also be removed using a dry erase marker on certain surfaces such as a whiteboard as it contains acetone.