Ink is defined as a pigmented liquid used for writing, printing, painting, or drawing. There are many types of ink, suitable for an enormous range of uses. Different inks vary in their application, light-fastness, durability, and absorption on paper or other media.
Composition of Ink
All inks have the same two basic parts – a vehicle and a colorant. The vehicle is water, oil, or other liquid, and the colorant is any chemical that imparts color to the fluid. Other substances are added to give the ink proper consistency, absorption, drying rate, long shelf life, and other desirable qualities.
History of Ink
The original inks were juices from plants or the ‘ink' from squids. Man-made ink was first used in Egypt and China around 5,000 years ago. Reed pens and brushes were used for writing, and the ink was made from lampblack (carbon or soot) and vegetable oil or animal glue. Around 1200 BC, other types of ink were developed using berries or minerals as colorants.
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By Carla Wakeman
