Electromagnetic paper Recycling system( photo-chromic or thermo-chromic inks?)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of an electromagnetic paper recycling system that utilizes photochromic or thermochromic inks. Participants explore the viability of this idea, focusing on its potential applications, limitations, and challenges in practical implementation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant proposes using electromagnetic radiation to break down color pigments in inks, suggesting that this could allow for the reuse of paper.
  • Another participant questions whether the system could also remove other stains, such as coffee or grease.
  • Concerns are raised about the cost-effectiveness of the system compared to traditional paper recycling methods.
  • Participants discuss the physical condition of reused paper, noting that damage like dog-eared corners could affect usability.
  • One participant suggests that the electromagnetic process might damage the paper's texture, indicating a need for specially formulated paper to avoid this issue.
  • Clarification is provided that the proposed system would not remove all types of stains, as it relies on specific inks.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility and practicality of the proposed system. While some see potential in the concept, others raise significant concerns regarding cost, effectiveness, and the physical condition of reused paper. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing viewpoints.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge limitations regarding the assumptions about the inks and paper materials needed for the system to function effectively. There is also uncertainty about the practical realizability of the concept.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to individuals exploring innovative recycling technologies, materials science, and those involved in sustainable practices in paper usage.

Mosen
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Hi Everybody :)

Recently I have been thinking on the concept of reusing paper instead of recycling it by using a special kind of photo-chromic ink,
as chemistry is not my profession ia m writing here just to have your opinions about viability of this concept:

what is the concept about?
Concept of Electromagnetic erasing system is inspired from observation of destructive effects of electromagnetic radiation on color pigments. While ink & pigment producers try to increase resistance of pigments in prolonged exposure to sunlight, this project aims to utilize electromagnetic radiation in a fully controlled reaction inside a machine to break the bonds of color pigments that absorb only a particular range of electromagnetic spectrum. In order to have an efficient system only those CMYK pigments should be utilized that their absorption band is different from paper. In this case, in a similar way as a photochromic or thermochromic material, color pigments start to decompose into colorless products however in contrary to what we expect from a photochromic change, electro erasing would be an irreversible reaction.
 
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Would it also take out coffee stains, greasy smudges, carbon particles (black ink)?
 
Sounds like a good idea, but a couple of points to highlight:

1. Does the cost of such a system (and any required materials - special ink etc) come in under current paper costs?

2. I've never seen a piece of paper survive in a reusable condition once it has been written on. You always get dog-eared corners, slight creases etc. Would your machine be able to deal with this? Otherwise you're going to be giving out some rather shoddy paper, and see a rapid degradation with each consecutive use.
 
I have deleted link to the blog and too large pictures, I wonder if we will ever hear from Mosen, or was he only spamming the forum.
 
@jarednjames

1- the cost of system wouldn't be less than conventional one,its so soon to talk about price. I even don't have a clue yet if it is practically realizable concept or not, that's why i wrote here since you guys might know more than me about it...

2- the problem of dog-eared corners is not a problem at all, we all see many printed papers in offices that apart from the written media are in quite good condition, but we can not use the due to the written ink. the problem might be the damage of the electromagnetic radiation on texture of paper ... that's right and to avoid that the paper pulp must be different from normal paper,
technically the absorption band of paper must be different to the one of the ink to get the best result without damaging to the paper.

by the way, sorry for the late answer, I go disappointed of getting an answer from the thread after some days, and didn't check the thread till today.




@ Borek
i don't get the reason to delete the link and Picture because of my delay in replying someone else.
since it might help reader to understand the concept.
without link and picture you already made this thread a spam one.

here is the http://www.yankodesign.com/2011/01/11/dont-shred-your-paper-disappear-your-ink/" for other users who might need more info...

@ chemisttree: no it wouldn't clear coffee and etc.. it requires using particular inks...
 
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