Talk Composites - The Forum for Advanced Composites

large but thin transparent resin cast in open mould

http://www.talkcomposites.com/Topic12581.aspx

By palace - 8/16/2014 11:14:25 PM


Hi,



1. 

I need to make an 110 x 40 x 0,4 cm water clear resin cast. Would you recommend polyester resin for this ? The mould I will use is made of rtv silicone.


2. 

I will cast in an open mould. 

Any suggestions on how I can keep the surface of my cast tack free ? 

I read that cellophane film can be used to cover the surface of the cast and protect it from air. If this is correct: Do I need to place the cellophane film DIRECTLY on the surface after I have poured the resin ? Or will it do if I place the cellophane 1 cm over the surface ? (My mould is in a wooden frame, and it would be a lot easier to place (tape) the cellophane ON the frame, rather than IN the frame.) 

If I need to place the cellophane film directly on the surface: When do I do that? Immediately or when the resin has started to cure?

I also read about MW wax. If that would be a better idea for protecting the surface: how do I apply the wax ? Do I mix it with the resin, or do i pour it over the resin as a final layer ?

I need a clear and transparent cast without any cloudiness or discolouration.


Thank you



By Dravis - 8/20/2014 10:11:01 AM

You just mix it into the resin... it will "float" to the top of the gelcoat, forming a barrier against the air, and that will make the gelcoat dry up and get a hard non tacky surface.

Personally I would use Wessex Resins "PermaCoat" water clear Epoxy resin...  (Sorry EC.. BigGrin )  it is a slightly thickened coating resin, and really is very clear. I have not had it fisheye off any of the things I've done with it, but I have never used it on a silicone mold.