Polymers are large molecules or macromolecules made up of monomers chained together to create polymers. The main classes of polymers are rubbery or plastic. Toner ranges from 80 to 90 percent "plastic" polymer.
The final 10 to 20 percent of toner's composition is carbon-based black pigment. Black pigment readily absorbs light. Light and magnetism allow the toner to create a copier image. Magnetite, a carbon black pigment, is used in toner.
Toner polymer and pigment is derived from petrochemicals or oil-based chemicals originating from the earth, processed into the black, magnetic-looking powdery substance in your toner cartridge. Each microscopic toner particle weighs just 1 nanogram, and a carrier bead is just 100 microns in size.