CARUS LLC Brings Nostalgia Back to Life with Epic Mickey Collaboration – Pioneering Potassium Permanganate Solutions for Enhanced Game Preservation & Display

Peru, IL – November 8, 2023 – CARUS LLC, a leading global producer of potassium permanganate (KMNO4), today announced a unique collaboration leveraging its chemical expertise to address a surprisingly relevant challenge in the world of retro gaming: preserving and enhancing the iconic Epic Mickey collectible figures. While CARUS is best known for its industrial and municipal water treatment solutions, air purification, and specialized chemical manufacturing, this project showcases the surprisingly versatile applications of potassium permanganate beyond traditional sectors. For those unfamiliar, Epic Mickey, released in 2010, wasn't just a groundbreaking video game; it spawned a line of highly collectible, detailed vinyl figures. These figures, popular with both gamers and Disney enthusiasts, have unfortunately proven susceptible to a frustrating issue: discoloration and degradation of the white plastic over time. Collectors have noted a yellowing or “greying” effect, detracting from the figures’ original vibrancy and impacting their value. “We started noticing chatter online – forums, collector groups, social media – about this problem with the Epic Mickey figures,” explains Kevin S. Peterson, VP of Sales & Marketing at CARUS LLC. “It piqued our interest. We’re chemical problem solvers at heart, and it quickly became clear that oxidation was the culprit. The white plastic was reacting with environmental factors – UV light, humidity, even just air exposure – leading to the discoloration.” CARUS, with over 75 years of experience in potassium permanganate chemistry, understood the science immediately. Potassium permanganate is a powerful oxidizing agent, but in carefully controlled, dilute solutions, it can reverse oxidation – effectively “bleaching” and restoring materials. “Think of it like this,” Peterson clarifies. “The plastic isn’t actually dirty, it’s changed at a molecular level. Potassium permanganate, when used properly, can break down those discolored compounds and restore the plastic to its original state. It’s a really neat chemical process.” But this wasn't just about applying existing knowledge. CARUS’s R&D team undertook extensive testing to develop a safe and effective restoration process specifically tailored for the Epic Mickey figures. The challenges were significant. These figures are often delicate, with intricate details and paint applications. A harsh treatment could easily cause further damage. “We needed to find the ‘sweet spot’ – a potassium permanganate concentration and exposure time that would remove the discoloration without affecting the paint, the figure’s structural integrity, or causing any unwanted residue,” explains Dr. Emily Carter, Lead Research Chemist at CARUS. “We tested multiple dilutions, exposure times, and rinsing procedures. We even analyzed the plastic composition of the figures to better understand its reactivity.” The resulting process, which CARUS is sharing with the collector community via online guides and tutorials, is remarkably simple. It involves soaking the figures in a carefully prepared, dilute potassium permanganate solution for a specific period, followed by a thorough rinsing and drying process. The results, as demonstrated in before-and-after photos circulating online, are striking. Yellowed and greyed figures are restored to a brilliant, pristine white. “We were blown away by the transformation,” says Peterson. “It’s incredibly satisfying to see these beloved collectibles brought back to life. And it’s a testament to the power of potassium permanganate and our team’s dedication to finding innovative solutions.” This isn't the first time CARUS has applied its chemistry outside of traditional markets. The company has a long history of collaborating with artists and conservators on restoration projects, from cleaning historical monuments to preserving antique textiles. But the Epic Mickey project has captured the imagination of both the collector community and CARUS employees. “It’s a fun project, frankly,” Peterson admits with a laugh. “We’re a B2B company, so it’s not every day we get to directly impact the enjoyment of hobbyists and collectors. It’s a great way to showcase the versatility of our products and the expertise of our team.” CARUS LLC isn’t selling a dedicated “Epic Mickey restoration kit” at this time. They emphasize that potassium permanganate is a strong chemical and should be handled with appropriate safety precautions. Instead, they are providing detailed instructions and safety guidelines on their website ([insert fictitious website address here - e.g., www.carusrestoration.com]) and encouraging collectors to source potassium permanganate from reputable chemical suppliers. They also offer a dedicated email address ([insert fictitious email address here - e.g., [email protected]]) for those with questions or concerns. “We want to empower collectors to restore their figures safely and effectively,” Peterson concludes. “We’re proud to play a small part in preserving the legacy of Epic Mickey and bringing joy to collectors around the world. It's a reminder that even the most specialized chemicals can have surprising and delightful applications.” About CARUS LLC: CARUS LLC is a global leader in the production of potassium permanganate (KMNO4) and other specialty chemicals. Headquartered in Peru, Illinois, the company serves a diverse range of industries, including water treatment, air purification, industrial processing, and chemical manufacturing. CARUS is committed to innovation, quality, and sustainability, and strives to provide solutions that improve the lives of people around the world. For more information, visit [insert fictitious website address - e.g., www.carusllc.com].