In fields such as handicraft reproduction, prototype model making, candle molds, and food molds, the performance of mold silicone rubber directly determines the detail reproduction fidelity of molded products and the service life of the mold. Problems users commonly encounter include: complex patterns or fine details not being reproduced clearly, mold tearing or damage during demolding, and molds deforming or cracking after only a few uses.

These issues typically involve four core factors. First, improper hardness selection: silicone with excessive hardness (such as above Shore A 30) lacks flexibility, making it prone to tearing during demolding and difficult to reproduce fine details; silicone with excessively low hardness (such as below Shore A 5) lacks mold strength and is prone to deformation. Second, mixing ratio accuracy: inaccurate A/B component ratios or uneven mixing of two-component mold silicone rubber leads to localized non-curing or incomplete curing, severely affecting mold strength. Third, master pattern treatment: residual mold release agent, dust, or unsealed pores on the master pattern surface leads to mold sticking or loss of detail. Fourth, curing speed: when curing is too fast, working time is short, and bubbles cannot escape before being trapped in the rubber, forming defects.

Targeted solutions are as follows: For fine pattern reproduction, soft mold silicone rubber of Shore A 10–20 is recommended—this hardness range ensures both detail reproduction precision and sufficient flexibility for easy demolding. Strictly weigh A/B components according to the weight ratio specified in the product instructions, with error controlled within ±2%; use a planetary mixer or handheld mixer for thorough mixing for 3–5 minutes, then vacuum degas for 20–30 minutes. Spray dedicated mold release agent on the master pattern surface; for porous materials such as plaster and wood, pore sealing treatment must be performed first. Select a room-temperature slow-curing system with a working time (pot life) of 30–60 minutes for adequate bubble release and handling.

Tips for Extending Mold Service Life: After use, the mold surface can be wiped with silicone oil to prevent silicone aging and cracking; avoid mold contact with nitrogen-, phosphorus-, and sulfur-containing substances (such as certain rubbers and resins), as these substances cause platinum catalyst poisoning and prevent silicone curing; avoid deformation from heavy pressure during storage, and keep in a cool, dry place.

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