N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone
Also goes by the name (Chemists call it) N-Pyrol.
This ingredient can make up to 40-60% of some inkjet inks and is the secret ingredient that prevents the ink from evaporating into the air.
Beware though. There are many refill establishments that do not use N-Pyrol in their inks (Typically drop by and refill shops) where the ink may need to be used within 30 days after refilling. Inkjet cartridges using N-Pyrol can last 3 years and more without any degradation in the effectiveness of the ink when used in the 20 deg C range.
Considered a “fairly” non toxic ingredient, it is also commonly used for Paint Strippers.
It is readily absorbed by the skin and has been know to cause local irritation in laboratory testing.
You can find a MDS (Data Safety) sheet at this link.
or the International Chemical Safety card sponsored by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Filed under: FAQ, Inkjet Info | Tagged: Inkjet Cartridges, N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone, N-Pyrol, N-Pyrol can last 3 years, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, non toxic ingredient, Paint Strippers |
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That’s interesting, I have had some problems with ink refills and the ink not lasting very long -perhaps this is why. How can you find out if the ink used in refill places contains this chemical – will they be open about ingredients etc?
The formulation of inkjet ink is one of the industries best kept secrets.
IF you are lucky you can get you hands on a MDS (Material Data Sheet) that provides insight into the key chemicals used and their safety/hazzard ratings. They are typically not provided except from the OEM manufacturers who have patents on their chemical compositions used.
The secret ingredient we have mentioned above is used by virtually every manufacturer, as evaporation would result in ink cartridges being empty in 1 day without it….
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