tintenkiller

Tintenkiller, also known as ink eraser or ink remover, is a chemical substance designed to remove or decolorize ink from various surfaces, most commonly paper. It typically works through a chemical reaction that breaks down the dyes present in the ink, rendering them invisible or significantly lighter.

The active ingredients in most ink removers are oxidizing agents, such as sodium hypochlorite or hydrogen peroxide, or reducing agents. These chemicals react with the chromophores (color-bearing parts) of the ink pigments, altering their molecular structure and thus their ability to absorb and reflect light. Some formulations may also contain acids or bases to aid in the breakdown process.

Tintenkiller has been historically used for correcting errors in writing, particularly before the widespread adoption of correction fluid or digital editing. It was often applied with a cotton swab or a specialized pen designed for ink removal. However, its effectiveness can vary depending on the type of ink and the paper used. Older inks or inks with more stable pigments may be more resistant to removal.

While effective for temporary ink removal, prolonged or excessive use of some tintenkiller formulations can damage paper fibers, leading to discoloration, weakening, or even disintegration of the material. Modern writing practices have largely reduced the need for such physical ink removers.