Criteria for the selection of silicones in mould production. Physical properties, applications and commercial brands.

Abstract

Silicone has proven to be an extremely efficient material for making moulds in the field of conservation and restoration of cultural heritage. However, the large variety of types and commercial brands available, combined with the lack of upto-date publications on their use, make it difficult to choose the correct silicone for a particular project. This article summarises the physical properties of this elastomer, some commercial brands and their main applications in the field of palaeontology.