Sustainable Options for Ink Removal
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Ko van den Boom
- Reading time: 20 minutes
- Graffiti removal, Vandalism
Ink removal can impact both health and the environment. Fortunately, safer and more sustainable options are now available. In this blog, you’ll discover the sustainable choices professionals can make for effective and responsible ink removal
What Makes Ink Different from Paint?
At first glance, ink and paint seem similar, as both are commonly used in graffiti. However, their compositions differ significantly. Ink typically consists of pigments dissolved in alcohol, while paint combines pigments with binders. This difference calls for a specialized approach when removing ink.
Common Tools Used by Graffiti Artists
Graffiti markers are a favorite among street artists, offering precision on surfaces like metal and glass. Their versatility makes them ideal for detailed work, though their environmental impact is worth noting. Popular tools used by graffiti artists include:
- Pump Markers:
Equipped with a pump mechanism for controlled ink flow, suitable for smooth surfaces like metal and glass. - Steel Tip Markers:
Feature a steel tip for pressure-based ink application, ideal for hard surfaces like plastic and metal. - Squeezers:
Allow ink to flow by squeezing the marker, perfect for
creating drip effects. - Stealth Markers:
Use invisible ink that becomes visible under UV light, ideal for subtle graffiti. Examples include Magic Ink or silver nitrate pens. Artists also use speedflow cocktails and invisible inks for their unique effects
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Why Is Safe Ink Removal Important?
Many traditional ink removers contain volatile substances like acetone, MEK, or ethanol, which evaporate quickly and are easily inhaled. These substances are also flammable. Professional alternatives now offer safer and more sustainable solutions.
Sustainable Alternatives for Ink Removal
Professionals are increasingly opting for products with milder, non-volatile solvents like glycols. These sustainable ink removers protect both health and the environment. A recent innovation includes an ink remover where ethanol was replaced with a non-flammable alternative, making the product safer to use and reducing its ecological footprint.
The Future of Safe Ink Removers
Although significant progress has been made, innovation continues.
Researchers are developing pH-neutral formulas that effectively remove ink without damaging delicate surfaces. Biobased alternatives and pHneutral products are expected to play a larger role in the future of ink removal.
Conclusion
Safe ink removers are essential for specialists in the anti-graffiti industry who work with persistent inks daily. Choosing milder, non-volatile solvents not only protects user health but also reduces environmental impact. The future of ink removal lies in further innovation and sustainability.
