What is Acrystal? How do you process Acrystal and what are the advantages of Acrystal over epoxy? In this article we explain all about the use of Acrystal and its different applications.
Acrystal is a cold-curing laminating ceramic (acrylic resin). Acrystal is used for cast and laminated sculptures and making support moulds, decorative applications and more. It is easy to use and produces professional results. A cured Acrystal casting resembles plaster but is many times stronger!
Acrystal consists of 2 components: a base (powder) and a liquid (acrylic polymer). In addition to being easy to process, Acrystal is odorless, non-toxic and UV-resistant. Acrystal is similar to the Jesmonite brand.
Acrystal has an ivory-white colour. With the right pigments, you can colorize Acrystal to your liking. For example, use one of the following pigments to mix through Acrystal.
After curing, it is possible to paint Acrystal with acrylic paints or finish with Posca markers.
Acrystal is available in the following varieties:
Acrystal Prima
Acrystal Prima is often used for small casts in moulds or for applications where lamination is used. The end result resembles plaster and is very strong.
Acrystal Optima
Acrystal Optima is very suitable for larger castings and is available starting at 13 kg. With Acrystal Optima you easily cast large sculptures. Like Acrystal Prima, this variant is also suitable for castings in silicone moulds.
Acrystal Aqua
Acrystal Aqua is ideally suited for laminating and casting products that are continuously submerged in water. Thanks to the harmless composition of the components, the material is suitable for use in aquariums. The ideal product if you want to make your own ornaments for your aquarium.
Acrystal Decor
This type of Acrystal is used for decorative applications. Acrystal Decor is available in 4 different variants. Each variant has its own decorative style for a marble, pewter, bronze, or copper look to your casting.
The great benefit of Acrylic, over epoxy, is that it is completely safe to use. You don't need a fume mask or other protective equipment and you don't risk triggering an allergy. In addition, Acrystal has a higher heat resistance and the material does not corrode the mould. Thus, you do not need to rework the castings and you can enjoy your silicone moulds longer. Finally, Acrystal cures much faster than epoxy. After only 30 minutes it is possible to carefully remove the casting from the mould. We do recommend letting it sit a little longer to allow the acrylic resin to fully cure.
Now that you're familiar with the properties of Acrystal and the different types available, we'll tell you how to process Acrystal!
The mixing ratio of Acrystal differs per variant. In the diagram below you will find the different mixing ratios.
| Product | Mix ratio | Description |
| Acrystal Prima | 100:40 | 2.5 parts powder, 1 part liquid |
| Acrystal Optima | 3:1 | 3 parts powder, 1 part liquid |
| Acrystal Aqua | 7:1 | 7 parts powder, 1 part liquid |
| Acrystal Decor | 5:1 | 5 parts powder, 1 part liquid |
After about 30 minutes of curing, you can release the piece from the mould. Leave this for a few days so that the acrylic can gain strength.
If you want to place your workpiece outside or protect it against moisture, such as with a coaster, you can treat it with Acrystal sealer. The sealer makes the casting moisture resistant.
Do you have any questions about Acrystal or would you like to share your creation with us? Please feel free to contact one of our specialists. We are happy to advise you to make your project a success. Send us a WhatsApp message, email support@polyestershoppen.com or call +31 85 022 0090 for free, no-obligation advice.
Do you have a specific question? Call one of our specialists for free advice +3185 0220090
