Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Objective: To synthesize the easily erasable, user-friendly, and low-cost whiteboard ink from the locally available raw sources. Methods: The ink was prepared by mixing the Neem-gum, n-butanol, dyes of different colours in different ratios, and the mixture thus obtained was heated at constant temperature and then was cooled to room temperature and filtered. Findings: Out of different combinations three different ink formulations SH1, SH2, and SH3 were obtained, and later they were tested to different physiochemical analysis. The results thus obtained for SH1, SH2, and SH3 respectively were pH (5.9, 4.7, and 3.4), viscosity (0.0011628 Ns/m2, 0.0086425Ns/m2and 0.0046242Ns/m2) and drying time (5.24 seconds, 18.04 seconds and 8.22 seconds). Samples SH1 and SH3 depict the best properties like drying time, viscosity, and erasability. To know the elemental concentration in the samples, the XRF analysis was conducted and the results thus obtained were on par with that of the standard ink available in the market. Novelty: Ink manufacturers of international repute often synthesize them with chemicals that might harm the users like teachers and other professionals if they come into improper contact with it. So we prepared an ink from the naturally available neem gum which is both user-friendly and eco-friendly.

Keywords: Azadirachta indica; erasability; ink; Phenolphthalein; viscosity; XRF analysis