Editing Correction fluid (section)

== Composition ==
[[File:SEM_correction_fluid.tif|thumb|Correction fluid copolymer visualized under [[scanning electron microscopy]] (SEM). The micro-structural details of the copolymer resin are visible under high magnifications. Correction fluid was applied on a glass base (visible in the bottom-right corner of all SEM images).]]

The exact composition of correction fluid varies between manufacturers, but most fluids are composed of an ''opacifying agent'', a ''solvent'' (or thinner) and an adulterant 'fragrance' to discourage [[Inhalant|abuse]]. The opacifying agent can be composed of a mixture of titanium dioxide,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-02-17 |title=What Chemicals Are in Correction Fluid? |url=https://sciencing.com/chemicals-correction-fluid-5241276.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170217051152/https://sciencing.com/chemicals-correction-fluid-5241276.html |archive-date=2017-02-17 |access-date=2024-02-13 |website=Sciencing}}</ref> latex, and other polymer resins.{{Citation needed|date=February 2008}}

Thinner originally contained [[toluene]], which was banned due to its toxicity. Later, it contained [[1,1,1-trichloroethane]], a skin irritant now widely banned under the [[Montreal Protocol on Substances That Deplete the Ozone Layer]], and then the slightly safer [[trichloroethylene]]. Thinners currently used with correction fluid include [[1-Bromopropane|bromopropane]].{{Citation needed|date=February 2008}} Because it contains organic [[solvent]]s ([[volatile organic compounds]]), unused correction fluid thickens over time as volatile solvents escape into the air. It can become too thick to use, and sometimes completely solidifies. Therefore, some manufacturers also sell bottles of solvent as "thinner", a few drops of which will return the correction fluid to its original liquid state. To avoid the inconveniences of organic solvents (safety and availability), some brands of fluid are water-based. However, those have the disadvantages of a longer drying time, and incompatibility with some inks (which will soak through ).