Ontinkt

Ontinkt is a Dutch term used to describe the removal of ink from a surface, particularly printed material. In common usage it denotes the act of deinking or whitening by extracting ink pigments from paper or other substrates. The word combines ont- meaning un- with inkt meaning ink.

In the context of paper recycling, ontinkt corresponds to the deinking process that enables recycled pulp to achieve white and bright finishes. Modern deinking typically involves mechanical pulping, flotation with surfactants and air to separate ink from fibers, washing, and screening. The choice of chemicals and process conditions aims to minimize fiber loss and environmental impact, and may include enzymatic or biological components in some facilities.

In archival or art-conservation contexts, ontinkt denotes careful ink removal from historical documents or artworks. Professionals prioritize preserving paper integrity and legibility, using test areas, gentle solvents, poultices, gel-based cleaners, or laser-assisted techniques when appropriate. Ethical and practical considerations include potential alteration of original material, fading, or residue, and treatment is usually documented for future reference.

The term is specialized and predominantly used in Dutch-language contexts within printing, papermaking, and conservation literature. In English-language discussions, deinking and ink removal are more common umbrella terms, but ontinkt may appear as a direct translation or as a niche term in Dutch sources. See also deinking, paper recycling, archival conservation, ink, and conservation science.