Polymer clay is a type of modeling clay that can be hardened by polyvinyl chloride polymer (PVC). It usually does not contain clay minerals, but like mineral clay, the liquid is added to the dry particles until it reaches the working nature of the gel, and also, the part is put into the oven to harden, hence the daily name as clay. Polymer clays are generally used for making art and craft items, and are also used in commercial applications to create decorative parts. Art made from polymer clay can now be found in the main museums.
Video Polymer clay
Histori
Bakelite, the early plastic, was very popular among designers and was an early form of polymer clay, but the unburnt phenol base of Bakelite was flammable and ultimately discontinued. The polymer clay was first formulated as a possible replacement for Bakelite. One of these formulations was brought to the attention of the German doll maker KÃÆ'äthe Kruse in 1939. While not suitable for use in his factory, Kruse gave some to his daughter Sophie, known in the family as "Fifi," who successfully used it as modeling clay. The formulation is then sold to Eberhardt Faber and marketed under the name "FIMO" ( FI fi's MO deling compound).
Maps Polymer clay
Composition
The polymer clay contains a base of PVC resin and a liquid plasticizer, making it plastisol. Plasticol clay polymers are also categorized as plastigels because of their rheological properties. It is a high yield thixotropic material; when a sufficient force is applied to the material yield, it flows like a viscous fluid until the force is removed, where it again becomes solid. It is this plasticity that makes it useful as modeling clays compared to putty or paste. Plastigels retain their shape even when heat is used, which is why polymer clay does not melt or droop when the oven heals. Various gelling agents are added to provide this property such as submerged bentonite, metallic soap, or smoky silica.
The basic resin can be modified in various ways. Mineral oil, lecithin, and odorless mineral spirits can be added to reduce viscosity or change the nature of its work. Small amounts of zinc oxide, kaolin, or other fillers are sometimes added to increase opacity, elastic modulus, or compression strength. Polymer clay is available in many colors, which can be mixed to create different colors or gradient mixtures. Color and special-effect composites include translucent, fluorescent, fluorescent, and artificial "pearls", "metal," and "rock."
Use
The polymer clay can still be worked out until it is healed in general. The curing process occurs at temperatures between 265 ° F (129 ° C) to 275 ° F (135 ° C) for 15 minutes per 1 / 4 inch (6.4 mm) thickness. This temperature is significantly lower than for mineral clay and can be achieved by using a home oven. The clay does not shrink when healed. Brands of polymer clay include Fimo, Sculpey, and Kato Polyclay.
Home-made pasta makers are a popular multi-use tool for polymer clay artists. This is used to create sheets of uniform thickness, to mix colors or to create colored sheets, and to condition (soften) clay. Polymer clays generally need to be conditioned before use. This involves squeezing the clay by hand, passing it between two rolls, or using a low-shear mixer to break down the adhesion of the resin particles. Once conditioned, the clay will remain flexible until the particles finally re-stick.
Health and safety
Polymer clay safety is a subject that specifically deals with the long-term effects of exposure to certain phthalate plasticizers that have been classified as endocrine disruptors. When used as toys or child care items, it should not contain more than 0.1% of any of the six phthalates restricted or prohibited by the safety rules board. The six phthalates are: DEHP (Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate), DBP (Dibutyl phthalate), BBP (Benzyl butyl phthalate), DINP (Di-isononyl phthalate), DIDP (Di-isodecyl phthalate), and DnOP (Di-n ). -cytl phthalate, according to the Consumer Product Enhancement Enforcement Act (CPSIA). If instructions on packets are followed (ie low temperatures and short roasting times) one will not burn clay. If the clay is burned by mistake or if the oven malfunctions, a small amount of hydrogen chloride gas can be released, which can cause odor and some irritation of the eyes or nose. The amount of hydrogen chloride gas released from the clay can cause health problems.
Due to the regulatory requirements and regulations, clay products to be used for storing or serving food or drink are not recommended or intended for this application. All clay polymer products are NOT labeled as "safe foods". Plasticizer stays in preserved and leaking products, potentially a health hazard for modelers and end users. Restrictions on the use of certain phthalates apply in 2009 both in the EU and the United States. Not all phthalates pose a health hazard and some are approved for medical applications.
Other uses
The polymer clay can be used to make various people's crafts and jewelry. Air-dried formulations, sometimes referred to as self-polymeric clay clays (such as Deco, cold porcelain, etc.), do not contain polymers.
References
Source of the article : Wikipedia