Play-Doh
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Playdoh.jpg
Play-Doh is a commercial plastic modeling compound similar in texture to bread dough that has been sold as a children's toy around the world for a half century. Its exact makeup is a secret, but is primarily a mixture of wheat flour, water, deodorized kerosene or another petroleum distillate (which provides the smooth texture), salt, a drying agent such as borax (which deters mold), an alum-based hardening agent, and colorings and perfume.
It is non-toxic, non-staining, and is soluble in soapy water. When kept in a sealed container, Play-Doh remains pliable, but when exposed to air it hardens in about a day, making it good for children's craft projects.
Play-Doh was invented by Noah McVicker and Joseph McVicker in 1956 and awarded U.S. Patent 3,167,440 in 1965. It is one of many common products invented by accident; it was meant as a wallpaper cleaner.
Play-Doh comes in different colors and has a distinctive smell. Over 700 million pounds have been sold so far. The product is now owned by American toy giant Hasbro.
External links
- Who Invented Play-Doh (http://inventors.about.com/library/inventors/blplaydoh.htm)
- Patent Number US3167440 (http://patimg1.uspto.gov/.piw?Docid=03167440&idkey=97FD600E35DB|US)