Holden's Mold Making Latex High Viscosity HX-974™

Description

This white brushable mold-making latex is vulcanizable and designed for vertical surface applications. It is suitable for creating glove molds of 3-dimensional originals and statuary. Apply between 10 and 20 layers, allowing the rubber to cure into a highly elastic, wear-resistant mold that captures fine details. These molds are suitable for casting plaster, concrete, and wax.

Applications include molds for ornamental concrete castings, stone veneer, architectural gypsum ornament, and wax castings like candles. Note that latex is suitable for limited casting of some resins. However, higher exotherm casting materials will degrade the mold faster, making silicone rubbers a better choice for production casting of resins.

Allergy Warning: Carefully read the label. Do not use if you have known allergies to rubber latex. Consult a doctor if unsure. Discontinue use and seek medical help if an allergic reaction occurs.

Instructions

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Avoid use if you have known allergies to natural latex.
• Avoid contact with eyes. Flush eyes with water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention.
• Remove from skin with waterless hand cleaner followed by soap and water.
• Children should not use this product without adult supervision.

• Do not allow the product to freeze; it will become unusable.
• Store and use at room temperature (23°C).
• This product has a limited shelf life and should be used promptly.
• Colder temperatures slow working/cure time; warmer temperatures reduce working time.
• Wear safety glasses, long sleeves, and rubber gloves to minimize contamination risk.

• Ensure the model is free of contaminants like oil, grease, and dirt.
• Most models do not require a sealer or release agent before applying the latex.
• Models containing sulfur must be sealed (e.g., sulfur-based clays).
• If unsure about latex release, perform a small-scale test on an inconspicuous area.
• If rubber sticks or darkens, apply a sealer like a barrier coat or shellac and let it dry thoroughly.
• Secure the model to a firm, flat, non-porous surface before applying rubber.

• The latex rubber is a single component.
• Optionally, decant into a smaller container for easier handling.

• Stipple the initial layer thinly onto the model, ensuring all details are covered without pooling.
• Create a wide, even flange of latex rubber around the model's perimeter.
• Apply additional layers when the previous layer is tacky (1-4 hours between coats).
• Alternate brushing direction for each layer to reduce stress and warping.
• Apply a minimum of 10 layers to achieve a thickness of 0.16 cm for smaller items and 0.32 cm for larger items.

• After the 4th layer, latex can be thickened with powder for undercuts and deep details.
• Allow thickened latex to dry completely (8-10 hours) to prevent delamination.
• Note: Thickened rubber loses some elasticity and tear strength.

• Reinforce by embedding fabric into wet latex and saturating with more latex.
• Use materials like fine mesh burlap, cheese cloth, or muslin.

• Full cure occurs after ~7 days at room temperature (23°C).
• For faster curing, heat the rubber in a dedicated oven (43°C to 49°C) for 8-12 hours.

• Once fully cured, apply a rigid support shell (mother mold) to support the rubber mold during casting.
• Brush the cured latex with a barrier coat before applying the mother mold.
• Common materials include brushable urethane plastic, gypsum, and PVA fibers.

• Avoid exposing the mold to oils, grease, or solvents (except specific oils).
• Wash molds with soap and water.
• For plaster casting, wet the mold with a 1% detergent solution to aid in releasing air bubbles.
• For concrete casting, use specific oils on the mold surface.

• The mold's physical life depends on usage and materials cast.
• High exotherm materials will quickly deteriorate the mold.
• Clean molds with a soap solution and dry thoroughly before storing.
• Store away from UV light and excessive heat (>49°C).
• For best results, store molds with a gypsum casting inside to retain shape.

Specifications