Difference between revisions of "Celastic"
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== Description == | == Description == | ||
| − | [Atlas Orthopedic International, Inc.] A non-woven, | + | [Atlas Orthopedic International, Inc.] A non-woven, [[polystyrene]] -impregnated fabric that becomes moldable when activated with solvent (Acetone or MEK). When Celastic® is dry, it forms a stiff, lightweight shell that is able to hold its shape at large scale. The versatile material is used by model makers, costume and stage designers, taxidermists, and float makers to produce and maintain shapes. Celastic® is also used by orthopedists and shoemakers for lightweight shoe and orthotic support. In museums, it has been used for reinforcing joins on fragmentary archaeological vessels and as shape supports for fabric. |
| − | The original Celastic material, [https://tsdr.uspto.gov/#caseNumber=71230085&caseType=SERIAL_NO&searchType=statusSearch trademarked in 1926], was impregnated with [[cellulose nitrate]]. It was used widely in the theatrical industry from the 1930s-80s for prop-making (Eric Hart). A reformulated version, sold since 2005, does not contain toxic materials. Alternatives developed in recent years include [[Varaform]], Wonderflex (heat-activated thermoplastic), and [[Fosshape]] ( | + | The original Celastic material, [https://tsdr.uspto.gov/#caseNumber=71230085&caseType=SERIAL_NO&searchType=statusSearch trademarked in 1926], was impregnated with [[cellulose nitrate]]. It was used widely in the theatrical industry from the 1930s-80s for prop-making (Eric Hart). A reformulated version, sold since 2005, does not contain toxic materials. Alternatives developed in recent years include [[Varaform]], Wonderflex (heat-activated thermoplastic), and [[Fosshape]] (heat-activated thermoplastic). |
==Applications== | ==Applications== | ||
Latest revision as of 08:57, 24 July 2024
Description
[Atlas Orthopedic International, Inc.] A non-woven, Polystyrene -impregnated fabric that becomes moldable when activated with solvent (Acetone or MEK). When Celastic® is dry, it forms a stiff, lightweight shell that is able to hold its shape at large scale. The versatile material is used by model makers, costume and stage designers, taxidermists, and float makers to produce and maintain shapes. Celastic® is also used by orthopedists and shoemakers for lightweight shoe and orthotic support. In museums, it has been used for reinforcing joins on fragmentary archaeological vessels and as shape supports for fabric.
The original Celastic material, trademarked in 1926, was impregnated with Cellulose nitrate. It was used widely in the theatrical industry from the 1930s-80s for prop-making (Eric Hart). A reformulated version, sold since 2005, does not contain toxic materials. Alternatives developed in recent years include Varaform, Wonderflex (heat-activated thermoplastic), and Fosshape (heat-activated thermoplastic).
Applications
- Sculpting models and masks
- Toe box, toe puffs, heel counters
- Taxidermy
Risks
- CelasticWorld: SDS
Physical and Chemical Properties
- Celastic® is soluble in acetone and MEK
- Insoluble in water
Working Properties
- Can be cut to size with scissors
- Becomes moldable when immersed in solvent.
- Working time with acetone is less than MEK; acetone activated material has less tack during working period
- The hard, rigid form may be drilled, sanded and painted.
Forms and Sizes
- Sheets (29" x 54") in thicknesses from 0.8-2.0 mm
- Rolls (54" x 120 feet) in thicknesses from 0.8-1.2 mm
- Rolls (54" x 95 feet) in thicknesses from 1.5-2.0 mm
Resources and Citations
- CelasticWorld website: celasticworld.com
- Atlas Orthopedic International, Inc.; parent company of Celasticworld; and tradename holder of Celastic®
- Bob Holkan, Atlas International, Submitted information, July 2024.
- Eric Hart, Prop Agenda: Celastic
- Chris White, Arizona State Museum, Submitted information, March 2008.