Holden's Mold Making Latex HX-80™

Description

This vulcanizable, low viscosity latex is designed for creating molds of flat, 2-dimensional pieces, often used in architectural or decorative objects. It provides high wear resistance and low shrinkage, making it suitable for casting materials such as plaster, concrete, and wax.

Note: While it can be used for limited resin casting, molds may degrade quickly with high exotherm materials. For production casting of resins, silicone rubbers are recommended.

Instructions

PROCESSING RECOMMENDATIONS

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Avoid use if allergic to natural latex. Avoid eye contact; flush with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention if needed. Remove from skin with waterless cleaner, then soap and water.
• Children should use only under adult supervision.

GENERAL PREPARATION:

• Do not freeze; it will become unusable. Store and use at 23°C. Use as soon as possible due to limited shelf life.
• Temperature affects cure time: colder slows it, warmer speeds it up.
• Wear safety glasses, long sleeves, and rubber gloves to minimize contamination risk.

PREPARING THE MODEL:

• Ensure the model is free from oil, grease, and dirt. Most models do not need a sealer or release agent, but sulfur-containing models must be sealed.
• If unsure about latex release, perform a small-scale test. If rubber sticks or darkens, apply a sealer like a barrier coat or spray shellac.
• Secure the model to a flat, non-porous surface before applying rubber.

PRODUCT PREPARATION:

• This is a one-component latex. Consider decanting into a smaller container for easier handling.

APPLYING, CURING & PERFORMANCE:

APPLYING THE RUBBER:

• Apply the initial layer thinly, ensuring all details are covered. Avoid pooling. Create a wide flange at the model's base for stability.
• Apply additional layers when the previous layer is tacky, alternating brushing directions to reduce stress. Use a minimum of 10 layers for 0.16 cm thickness on small items, and 0.32 cm for larger items.
• Optional: After the 4th layer, thicken latex with powder for deep details. Allow thickened latex to dry completely.
• Optional: Reinforce latex with fabric after the 6th layer for added stability.

CURING THE RUBBER:

• Full cure takes ~7 days at 23°C. For faster curing, heat in a dedicated oven at 43°C to 49°C for 8-12 hours.

APPLYING A SUPPORT SHELL:

• Once cured, apply a rigid support shell. Use materials like Plasti-Paste, gypsum, or fiberglass cloth.

USING THE MOLD:

• Avoid oils and solvents. Wash molds with soap and water. For plaster casting, wet the mold with a 1% detergent solution. For concrete, use castor oil.

MOLD PERFORMANCE & STORAGE:

• Mold life depends on usage. Clean with soap solution before storage. Store away from UV light and heat, ensuring molds are dry. Store with a gypsum casting to retain shape.

Specifications