Different Types of Rubber

Rubber material can be classified into distinct families based on its properties and usage. The varying rubber options can be used for different types of mold making and casting applications.

Rubber is essentially a simple material that is derived from the sap of trees. This milky white, sticky and elastic material has become almost indispensible in the world of mold making and casting.

The rubber is available in many different types and forms. Think – latex rubber, polyurethane rubber, silicone rubber, thermoset mold rubber and you will get the picture.

It goes without saying that each rubber has its own distinct properties and the use varies accordingly. Moreover, the same rubber is formulated differently to suit mold making and casting applications.

 For instance, liquid latex can be used for capturing molds from rough surfaces or when you have to cast abrasive materials. The economical material can even be applied to vertical surfaces or models where they are itself without the risk of run-off. It is particularly favored for creating special effects on actors. In its casting form, the less viscous latex rubber proves to be very useful for making latex masks, props and other thin skin products.

On the other hand, silicone rubber is more expensive, but it is still widely used for making silicone molds and casts. This rubber can be used for various applications – even food safe and skin safe variations are available. While the former is suitable for food molds, the latter can be easily applied on the human body for making life casts. The main advantage is that silicone does not stick to anything but itself – this allows for easy demolding from the model or mold.

While artists tend to use mold making silicone rubber for casting works too, special variants have also been developed. A skin-colored, translucent option makes doll reborning possible – it is soft and stretchable like skin, but still stays tough and tear-resistant like all other rubbers.

Similarly, polyurethane or thermoset mold rubbers come with their own distinct properties and usage.

You can check out the various rubber families and their use on the EnvironMolds website, https://www.artmolds.com

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