Inktsmeerslag

Inktsmeerslag, often translated as "ink smudge" or "ink smear," refers to an unintended mark left on a surface by ink that has not yet fully dried. This phenomenon is commonly encountered in writing, printing, and artistic endeavors involving ink.

The cause of inktsmeerslag is friction or pressure applied to the wet ink before it has had sufficient time to adhere to the substrate, such as paper. This can happen when a hand or sleeve brushes against freshly written text, or when pages are stacked too soon after printing. The viscosity of the ink and the absorbency of the surface play significant roles; thicker inks and less absorbent surfaces are more prone to smudging.

Preventing inktsmeerslag typically involves allowing adequate drying time for the ink. This can be achieved by careful handling of the written or printed material, using blotting paper, or employing quick-drying ink formulations. In printing, careful control of ink density and paper properties, along with appropriate drying mechanisms, are crucial for minimizing smudges. Artistic techniques sometimes intentionally create smudged effects for stylistic purposes, but in most contexts, inktsmeerslag is considered an undesirable defect.