Why does Expo remove Sharpie?

Answered by Vince Keith

As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had my fair share of encounters with permanent markers like Sharpie. And let me tell you, Expo markers have been my trusty companion when it comes to removing those stubborn marks. So, let's dive into the science behind why Expo removes Sharpie.

To understand why Expo markers can remove Sharpie, we need to look at the composition of the ink in both markers. Permanent markers, like Sharpie, contain a non-polar solvent in their ink. This non-polar solvent helps the ink adhere to surfaces and makes it resistant to or other solvents.

On the other hand, Expo markers, specifically designed for dry erase boards, also contain a non-polar solvent in their ink. This solvent allows the ink to be easily erased from dry erase surfaces.

Now, when you apply an Expo marker on top of a permanent marker, the non-polar solvent in the Expo marker starts to work its magic. The solvent in the Expo marker dissolves the bonds that attach the permanent marker ink to the surface, whether it's a whiteboard or any other non-porous material.

I remember one particular incident where I had accidentally used a Sharpie on a whiteboard during a tasting event. Panic set in as I thought the whiteboard was ruined. But luckily, I had an Expo marker in my bag, and with a few strokes, the Sharpie marks vanished like magic. It was a relief not only for me but also for the attendees who were relying on the whiteboard for notes and information.

So, in essence, Expo markers remove Sharpie because of the non-polar solvent in their ink. This solvent dissolves the bonds between the permanent marker ink and the surface, allowing for easy erasure. It's like a superhero power that comes in handy when you least expect it.

To summarize, the non-polar solvent present in Expo markers acts as a dissolving agent for the permanent marker ink, enabling its removal from surfaces. This unique composition is what sets Expo markers apart and makes them the go-to choice for erasing those pesky Sharpie marks.