How to Mix Concrete for Frame Mold Cement Casting

Casting cement with the aid of a mold within a frame is a way to create detailed copies of molded models that possess the strength of the concrete used in the casting. Mixing a concrete casting is little different from mixing any other concrete, though the components used to create the concrete differ slightly. Instead of gravel aggregates, casting concrete uses polypropylene fibers to add mass and strength to the cast. A latex mixture is used as a substitute for water to add even more strength to the mix. The result is a smooth concrete that forms into intricate designs while still maintaining the strength of traditional concrete.

Metric measuring cup
Grey Portland cement
White sand
Polypropylene fibers
Liquid latex
Bucket
Drill with grout mixer attachment
Concrete admixtures

Instructions

- 1
  Combine 750ml of grey Portland cement, 750ml white sand and 40 ml of polypropylene fibers in a bucket, mixing them together thoroughly. Use a metric measuring cup to measure the different components for mixing.
- 2
  Mix 100ml liquid latex with 200ml water in a separate clear container until the mix shows no signs of streaking throughout the liquid.
- 3
  Pour the latex mixture into the bucket with the dry components then mix them with a drill equipped with a grout mixer attachment. Add the water a small amount at a time, mixing continuously until the mix is smooth and pourable. If necessary, add additional water to thin the mix to the same consistency as oatmeal.
- 4
  Add the desired admixtures, such as concrete coloring, to the concrete mix and water.
- 5
  Continue to mix for about three minutes then use the concrete immediately thereafter, pouring it into the prepared frame mold to avoid its curing inside the bucket.

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