soft Plastics 2

[kzn1]

Hi

I have created a mould for a mouth guard. I am trying to make a proto type and I know nothing about plastic. I will not be using any type of machinery.

What do I need to order and how do I mix it? The consistency would need to be a soft plastic.


I have worked in a fibreglass manufacturing company before, but have no idea when it comes to plastic.

I hope I have posted this on the correct forum and I would like to thank you in advance for your replies.

Thank you.

 

[patprimmer]

Silicon Rubber or Polyurethane should work.

Regards

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[dwightdixon]

If you are going to use it in the mouth, silicone would be less toxic. Silicone does not have as good bite resistance than polyurethane. You can buy two part Silicone potting compounds from Dow. Real mouth guards are usually make from eva or I have helped some companies make them with a TPE compound but these materials require you to have injection molding equipment and metal molds. What is your intend? Just to make a prototype to sell the idea to others?

 

[patprimmer]

Food and medical grades of PU are available. Werther these Food grades meet the other required properties is another question to which I do not know the answer.

Regards

eng-tips, by professional engineers for professional engineers
Please see FAQ731-376 for tips on how to make the best use of Eng-Tips Fora.

 

[kzn1]

Hi

Thank you both for your replies.

 

[Demon3]

Using polyurethane or silicones are good ideas. I wonder if it's possible to make a really strong solution of gelatin in water (i.e. Jello) and fill your mold with that. It should be soft and certainly no concerns about toxicity!