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Christofer Br
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Waterglass is sodium silicate dissolved in water that upon drying forms soda glass. Could it therefore be used to cast a glass object like a slab or will it not form nicely?
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodium_silicate#Crystal_gardens said:Crystal gardens[edit]
When crystals of a number of metallic salts are dropped into a solution of water glass, simple or branching stalagmites of coloured metal silicates are formed. This phenomenon has been used by manufacturers of toys and chemistry sets to provide instructive enjoyment to many generations of children from the early 20th century until the present. An early mention of crystals of metallic salts forming a "chemical garden" in sodium silicate is found in the 1946 Modern Mechanix magazine.[24] Metal salts used included the sulfates and/or chlorides of copper, cobalt, iron, nickel, and manganese.
Pottery[edit]
Sodium silicate is used as a deflocculant in casting slips helping reduce viscosity and the need for large amounts of water to liquidize the clay body. It is also used to create a crackle effect in pottery, usually wheel-thrown. A vase or bottle is thrown on the wheel, fairly narrow and with thick walls. Sodium silicate is brushed on a section of the piece. After 5 minutes, the wall of the piece is stretched outward with a rib or hand. The result is a wrinkled or cracked look.
It is also the main agent in "magic water", which is used when joining clay pieces, especially if the moisture level of the two differs.[25]
Nik_2213 said:How you get the bubbles out remains beyond me...
Sodium silicate waterglass is a chemical compound made of sodium oxide and silica, commonly used as a binder or adhesive in various industries. When mixed with water, it forms a thick, syrupy solution that can be used to bind glass particles together for casting. It is often used in combination with other materials to create molds for casting glass objects.
Yes, sodium silicate waterglass is generally considered safe to use for casting glass objects. However, it is important to handle it with care and follow proper safety precautions, as it can be caustic and irritate the skin and eyes. It is also important to use it in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling the fumes.
No, sodium silicate waterglass is not suitable for all types of glass casting. It is commonly used for small-scale casting projects, but it may not be strong enough for larger or more complex objects. Additionally, it is not recommended for use with certain types of glass, such as lead crystal, as it can cause cloudiness or other defects in the finished product.
The exact mixing instructions may vary depending on the specific product you are using, but generally, you will need to mix one part sodium silicate waterglass with one part water. It is important to mix it thoroughly and let it sit for a few minutes to allow any air bubbles to dissipate before using it for casting.
Yes, you can reuse sodium silicate waterglass for multiple castings. However, the strength and effectiveness of the solution may decrease with each use, so it is recommended to mix a fresh batch for each casting project. You can also add a small amount of new solution to the old one to help maintain its strength.