Where did I go wrong?........

[penmanship]

When I attempt something new, I usually try to follow the instructions the first time, then "tweek" it my way (if needed) ........:biggrin:

My wife and I took a trip down to the States a couple of weeks ago, and I lucked into finding a place that sold the Crystal Clear Alumilite.........WOW ~ Jackpot! We don't have that up here, so I couldn't pass it up.

Got it home, read the instructions (correctly, i think/thought) measured everything up, added some shred Canadian currency, and waited...............YEEESH!
After the Alumilite hardend, I have a bloated, swollen, air filled block of Alumilte. What happened? I have limited supply of this product, and don't want to wreck another batch. It was also measured to make a blank .75" in thickness. Where'd I go wrong ?

Thanks for any, and all assistance,

Tim

 

[Brooks803]

I don't have much experience with alumilite, but after reading all the info from the real pros I'd have to say it looks like moisture got into the resin. did you use a pressure pot? if so you may have water in your line.

 

[Padre]

I agree with Jonathan, moisture somehow got into the mix. Did you use dye? If so, what kind?

Really looks like moisture.

 

[Padre]

Also, did you use a pressure pot? Lot's of air in shredded currency. Need to get that out.

 

[Glass Scratcher]

Did you bake off your shredds to make sure they were dry?

 

[NewLondon88]

See above.. I'd bet that the Scratcher nailed it.
Paper money collects moisture like you wouldn't believe.

How many times have you pulled damp dollar bills out of the pockets of
your jeans?

Next time you're about to stick that dollar bill between your lips while you
search for quarters and don't have enough free hands, remember how many
people keep those dollars in their BACK pockets. Now you've got a mouth
full of butt sweat. And it ain't even yours. And some people have allergies
to soap. Or water. Or wiping.

But I digress..
sounds like moisture

 

[jimofsanston]

I had the same problem with moisture the other day. Hey cut it down and fill in the voids with Ca and see how it looks. Also did you use any release agent? I found out that some have a water base but it is not listed.