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Chemicals in Permanent Markers

Permanent markers have been a mainstay writing utensil for over 50 years, thanks to the durability of their ink and the ability of these markers to write clearly on non-paper surfaces. The chemicals found in permanent markers--xylene, toluene and urethane resin--are what give these markers their characteristic abilities to handle unusual surfaces and leave long-lasting messages. While substantial or prolonged exposure to these chemicals is harmful and toxic, the amount present in a permanent marker is minimal for the casual user.

  1. Xylene

    • Xylene is an easily evaporated, flammable clear liquid. Xylene fumes, in sufficiently large quantities, will accumulate in low areas, as the vapor from xylene is heavy compared to the air through which it travels. Xylene is one of the most plentifully produced chemicals in the United States, with its main source being crude petroleum. Aside from being present in permanent markers, xylene is used as a thinner in paints, as paint solvent, as a solvent in pesticides and in adhesives.

      Sufficient exposure to xylene through ingestion, absorption through skin or through excessive inhalation will create systemic toxicity.

    Toluene

    • Like xylene, toluene is a colorless liquid which is present in crude oil as well as in the tolu tree. Along with its use in permanent markers, toulene is used in paint and paint thinners, rubber, lacquers, fingernail polish and adhesives.

      The level of toluene inhaled while using a permanent marker is negligible, but inhaling large levels of toluene in a short time from a source more intense than a permanent marker could cause dizziness and drowsiness. A moderate level of exposure to toluene can affect the nervous system by inducing fatigue and weakness, drunken behavior, confusion, memory loss, nausea and even temporary vision loss.

    Urethane (As Resin)

    • Urethane resin in permanent markers is used to act as a binding agent with the ink. After the alcohol within the ink evaporates, the urethane resin released through the use of the marker creates a film. This film not only encourages smooth and even ink flow for writing, but also creates strong adhesion between the pigment in the ink and the paper.

      Urethane resins are also popularly used in house paint.

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