Phenoxyethanol (2-Phenoxyethanol)
Definition
A semi-volatile high-boiling solvent that constitutes a major component of ballpoint ink vehicles; its gradual loss from the dried ink film after deposition on paper is the basis of solvent-loss ink dating methods.
- Chemical role
- Semi-volatile high-boiling solvent in ink vehicles
- Component share
- Major constituent of ballpoint ink formulations
- Forensic use
- Basis of solvent-loss ink dating methods
- Detection
- Quantified by GC (GC-MS or GC-FID)
Common questions
How does this differ from the plain 'phenoxyethanol' ink-aging entry?+
It is the same compound described with its precise chemical identity, 2-phenoxyethanol, emphasising its role as an ink-vehicle component rather than only the aging methodology built on its evaporation.
Why is gas chromatography chosen to quantify it rather than a simpler test?+
GC separates and measures trace solvent remaining in a tiny punched ink sample with the sensitivity and specificity needed to detect gradual loss over weeks, which a colour or spot test cannot resolve.
Does every ballpoint ink contain 2-phenoxyethanol?+
It is common in modern formulations but not universal, so an examiner first confirms its presence in the questioned ink before relying on its depletion for any comparative age assessment.
Related terms
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