We are using Moldgel to replicate Pre-Colombian Petroglyphs (usually 18" X 24") and artefacts in the Caribbean.As first impression taken is with Alginate , on Large Boulders usually found in the middle of jungle rivers.... the Alginate will be applied ...and within an hour ....in the field(On shore) be used to reproduce a Hydrocal Positive.
There will be about a 15-20 min wading and movement in the river(Shallow) to get to the work area for casting once the mold -impression has been taken.
WIll the Alginate require a mesh reinforcement?What would be the minimum Alginate thickness recommended....with and without reinforcement? and how many rapid Hydrocal castings could be done from the original Alginate mold?
How many days or hours will the Alginate mold be viable ,in the interest of returning to our studio to do the plaster casting there.
We will mot probably be using crystal clear mountain river water as a solution for the Alginate.
Any and all comments will be appreciated
Esteban
Esteban McGrath
Loresco Tropical Industries
San Juan,Puerto Rico
(787)281-7776
lsrjml@prtc.net
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Mix the alginate in a ratio of 4.75 ounces of powder to 16 ounces of water. This will provide a thicker mix which you can apply on a vertical. We suggest pre measuring before you get to the site.
Apply the alginate about ½ to 1-inch thick
You will need to back the alginate mold with a shell or mother mold. We advise dabbing a cotton pad into the alginate before it sets so that you will leave behind a bit of cotton fiber. Then apply your shell mold. You can use plaster and burlap for the shell or plaster bandages. Once the alginate sets it will hold the cotton fiber firmly and the plaster will bond to the cotton fiber. The when you remove the mold the MoldGel will be attached to the plaster so it will come off in one piece.
If you place the entire mold into a plastic bag with a wet towel to keep in moisture (better yet refrigerate – If you are able to do so) you should be good for overnight. Please rehearse this though before hand at you studio so you can see how long the MoldGel will stay viable in your environment.
If you are careful you may be able to pull more than one casting from the mold. The thicker the mold the better for making a second casting as it holds up better.
Please test water before hand. Water high in calcium, phosphate or iron will adversely effect the set time of any alginate. Crystal clear mountain water will contain minerals. So test
Regards,
Ed Mccormick
www.artmolds.com
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