gummiviskelær

Gummiviskelær, commonly known as erasers, are tools used to remove marks made by graphite pencils or other drawing media. The term "gummiviskelær" is a German word that translates directly to "rubber eraser." These erasers are typically made from a blend of synthetic rubber, sulfur, and paraffin oil, or from a vinyl or plastic material. The properties of the eraser, such as its pliability and abrasiveness, are determined by the specific composition of its ingredients.

Historically, erasers were made from natural rubber. The invention of vulcanization by Charles Goodyear in the mid-19th century led to the development of more durable and effective rubber erasers. Early erasers were often quite hard and could damage paper. Over time, formulations were improved to create softer, more pliable erasers that were less abrasive.

Modern gummiviskelær come in various forms and levels of hardness. Some are designed for general use, while others are specialized for specific tasks, such as art or technical drawing. The effectiveness of an eraser depends on its ability to lift the pigment from the paper without smudging or tearing the surface. The residue left behind by an eraser, often referred to as eraser dust or shavings, is a byproduct of the material being abraded away from the eraser itself. Different types of erasers produce varying amounts and textures of residue.