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How to Restore Ink Writing That Has Been Bleached

Hopelessness may be the first feeling you get if you happen to spill bleach on a piece of paper with important notes written in ink. Don't give up hope just yet. The page may be blank at this point, but there are ways to bring the words back. Some chemicals can actually counter the effects of bleach.

Things You'll Need

  • Ammonium sulphide
  • Potassium ferricyanide
  • Sulphuric acid
  • Safety goggles
  • Chemical-rated rubber gloves
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase ammonium sulphide solution (see Resource 1). Dip the page slowly into a solution of ammonium sulphide solution. It is possible in some cases that the actual vapor of the chemical will counteract the bleach. Repeat until you see your missing words appear.

    • 2

      Purchase potassium ferricyanide at a local store that sells photo developing supplies or online (see Resource 2). Float the paper in a solution of potassium ferricyanide. Prepare as small of an amount of the solution as possible. Dilute heavily with water. The recommended mixture is 85 parts water, 5 potassium ferricyanide.

    • 3

      Purchase pure sulphuric acid at a local chemistry supply store or online (see Resource 3). Wet the spot of missing ink with pure sulphuric acid. Complete this step very carefully. Acid can be corrosive to the skin. Wear chemical-rated gloves at all times when handling chemicals.

    • 4

      Use a camel's-hair pencil if can find one at a local hobby or art supply store. Wet the tip of the pencil with the solution of potassium ferricyanide and dampen the parts that were previously erased by chlorine bleach.

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