hiilipaperiin

Hiilipaperiin, meaning carbon paper in Finnish, is a thin paper coated on one side with a colored wax or ink mixture, used for making duplicate copies of documents. When placed between a sheet of paper and a writing instrument, pressure applied to the top sheet transfers the colored coating to the bottom sheet, creating a copy. This technology was widely used before the advent of photocopiers and digital duplication methods.

The earliest forms of carbon paper date back to the mid-19th century, with patents granted to various inventors. It was a crucial tool for businesses, offices, and individuals needing to retain records or share information. The effectiveness of carbon paper depends on the quality of the coating and the pressure applied during writing. Different colors of carbon paper, most commonly black or blue, were available.

Over time, carbon paper became less prevalent due to advancements in technology. Photocopiers offered faster and more efficient duplication, followed by the widespread adoption of fax machines and eventually digital document creation and sharing through computers and the internet. While largely obsolete for everyday use, carbon paper might still be found in niche applications or for historical purposes. Its legacy lies in its pioneering role in enabling the creation of multiple copies of written information.