Smith’s Theatrical Prosthetic Deadener is an additive for PlatSil Gels that is used widely in special effects and prosthetic appliance applications. It is used to eliminate the snappy, synthetic feel of silicone and simulate the look and feel of skin or human tissue. For a Deadener lower in the viscosity, consider PlatSil Deadener LV.
Add up to 300% Smith’s Deadener of the total mixed weight of the PlatSil Gel mixture (Part A + Part B). Experiment with varying levels to achieve the slow stretch and recovery properties of human tissue. 300% can be used to create a super-gel, which is extremely soft and sticky. A test cure should be performed to determine the proper amount to add for individual applications. Some choose to create a thin layer, or “skin”, of non-deadened PlatSil Gel backed with deadened PlatSil® Gel to mimic the surface tension of skin.
NOTE ON PLATSIL GEL-25: When working with PlatSil Gel-25, typically only up to 100% Deadener is needed. As a general rule, Deadener LV in PlatSil Gel-25 requires about half the amount compared to Smith’s Deadener in PlatSil Gel-10. PlatSil Gels with Deadener are often encapsulated in a cap plastic to make prosthetic appliances. To reduce the tackiness that presents itself with the addition of Deadener, either encapsulate the silicone or simply brush on talcum powder.
We do not recommend adding Deadener to PlatSil Gel-OO20 or PlatSil Gel-OO30.