Ebru is a traditional Turkish art form of paper marbling. It involves creating colorful patterns on the surface of water using special paints and then transferring the pattern onto paper or other surfaces.

The materials used in Ebru include a tray filled with water, special paints called ebru dyes, ox gall (a natural surfactant), and various tools such as styluses, combs, and brushes.

Ebru works by floating drops of paint on the surface of water that has been treated with ox gall. The drops of paint are then manipulated using various tools to create intricate patterns. The paper or other surface is then carefully placed on top of the pattern, and the paint is transferred to the paper.

Chemistry plays a crucial role in Ebru, particularly in the use of ox gall. Ox gall is a natural surfactant that reduces the surface tension of the water, allowing the paint to spread more easily. The use of ebru dyes also involves the chemistry of color theory and pigment interactions.

Ebru dyes have several unique properties that make them well-suited for paper marbling. They are highly concentrated, allowing for vibrant colors, and they are water-soluble, allowing them to spread easily on the surface of the water. They also have a high degree of surface tension, allowing them to float on the surface of the water without sinking.

Ebru can be a challenging art form to master, as it requires a great deal of skill and patience. The artist must be able to control the movement of the paint drops on the surface of the water to create the desired pattern, and then carefully transfer the pattern to the paper without smudging or distorting the design. Additionally, the use of chemicals such as ox gall can be hazardous if not handled properly.