Product Description
SORTA-CLEAR 18 SILICONE
SORTA-Clear™ silicones are high-quality, fully transparent, platinum-cure liquid silicones that cure at room temperature with minimal shrinkage. Precise weighing with a gram scale is required for accurate mixing. SORTA-Clear™ 18 has a Shore 18A hardness, excellent tensile strength, and tear resistance.
These silicones are ideal for prototypes, jewelry, and other molds where transparency is beneficial, such as when removing a model by cutting. SORTA-Clear™ molds can be cast without release agents with various materials, including polyurethane, epoxy, and polyester resins. Waxes and low-melting metal alloys are also suitable. The silicone can be colored with Silc Pig™ silicone pigments.
SORTA-Clear™ 18 is food-safe, suitable for casting chocolate and other confections. The silicone is also skin-safe, verified by independent lab testing.
Features
- Crystal-clear silicone
- Food-safe
- Skin-safe
- Room-temperature curing
- High tear strength
- High heat resistance
- Minimal shrinkage
- Release agent not required
Applications
- Transparent molds for prototypes
- Food molds and molds
- Wax and plaster casting
- Most casting resins (urethane, polyester, epoxy)
Hardness (ShoreA) | 18 |
Mix ratio (by volume) | 100A : 10B |
Pot Life (23 °C) | 60 min |
Curing Time (23 °C) | 24 h |
Heat resistance (min) | -53 °C |
Heat resistance (max) | 232 °C |
Shrinkage | <0.0254 mm/mm |
Viscosity (cP) | 21 000 |
Tear strength (N/mm) | - |
Tensile strength (N/mm²) | - |
Elongation (%) | 545 |
Color | Transparent clear |
Usage Instructions
Mix both components thoroughly, as they may separate during storage. Measure A and B by weight or volume in a 1:1 ratio and mix for at least 3 minutes, scraping container sides and bottom to ensure even curing.
Remove air bubbles by vacuum degassing (pump ≥1 bar). Allow silicone to expand and collapse fully before pouring into the mold.
Pour silicone slowly from the lowest point, filling gradually to avoid bubbles.
Cure at room temperature (23 °C) for at least 6 hours. Avoid curing below 18 °C. Cure time can be shortened with mild heat (e.g., 60 °C oven).
Inhibition: Certain materials (latex, tin-cure silicones, sulfur-rich clays, some woods, new polyester casts, epoxy, and urethane products) may inhibit platinum silicone curing. Test compatibility if unsure. Coating the model with clear acrylic can prevent inhibition.
Safety
Use in well-ventilated areas. Wear safety glasses, long sleeves, and vinyl gloves (latex gloves may inhibit curing). Store and use at room temperature (~23 °C). Higher temperatures shorten working and curing times. Use promptly; product has limited shelf life.