Nib of a ballpoint pen, SEM

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library

Nib of a ballpoint pen, SEM

Nib of a ballpoint pen, coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM). Ballpoint pens have an internal chamber filled with a viscous ink that is dispensed at the tip during use by the rolling action of a small metal sphere (grey). The ballpoint pen was invented in 1938 by Hungarian journalist Laszlo Biro (1899-1985) and was quickly adopted by the British Royal Air Force to solve the problems of writing at high altitudes. In 1953 Marcel Bich (1914-1994), developed a process for producing ballpoint pens at low cost, making the pens an everyday item. Magnification: x15 when printed 10 centimetres wide

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6279297

© STEVE GSCHMEISSNER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Biro Common Item Everyday Item Familiar Object Items Object Objects Write Ballpoint Pen False Coloured Writing Instrument

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate details of a ballpoint pen's nib, captured using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The nib, colored in this false-colored image, is the crucial component responsible for dispensing ink onto paper. Ballpoint pens revolutionized writing when they were invented by Hungarian journalist Laszlo Biro in 1938. This innovative design featured an internal chamber filled with thick ink that could be smoothly rolled onto surfaces through the action of a small metal sphere. The British Royal Air Force quickly recognized its utility and adopted it to overcome challenges faced while writing at high altitudes. In 1953, Marcel Bich further advanced ballpoint pen technology by developing a cost-effective production process. This breakthrough made ballpoint pens accessible to everyone and transformed them into an everyday item. The magnification used for this print allows viewers to appreciate the minute intricacies of the nib at fifteen times its actual size when printed ten centimeters wide. It serves as a reminder of how even familiar objects like ballpoint pens possess remarkable technological advancements that often go unnoticed in our daily lives. This stunning photograph from Science Photo Library offers us a unique perspective on this common item, highlighting both its functional beauty and historical significance without mentioning any commercial use or specific company associated with it.

MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.