Mixing Cement Fondue: A Step-By-Step Guide

Ciment Fondu is a versatile product that can be used for both casting and sculpting. It is a type of calcium aluminate cement that is widely used by sculptors due to its extreme hardness, quick-setting properties, and ability to capture intricate details. When mixed with an aggregate, it creates a concrete mix that is a popular alternative to stone for outdoor projects. Its durability, toughness, and low cost make it particularly well-suited for large-scale decorative projects.

The mixing process for Ciment Fondu involves combining it with fine silica sand and water, which results in a stiff mixture ideal for moulding and sculpting. However, it is important to note that Ciment Fondu must be used with aggregates, and the specific quantities required can be found on the product packaging.

Additionally, Ciment Fondu has excellent resistance to heat, corrosion, and abrasion, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including industrial floors, ovens, and agricultural buildings. It is also used as an accelerator for Portland cement, speeding up the hardening process for concrete and mortar.

Use a slurry of cement fondue powder and water for small sculptures

When creating small sculptures with cement fondue, it is recommended to use a slurry of cement fondue powder and water. This mixture will not include sand, which results in a stiff mix that cannot capture fine details or create a smooth surface.

To begin, mix the cement fondue powder and water until you achieve a creamy slurry consistency. Work on one section of your mould at a time, creating a small amount of the mixture for that specific section. Using a brush, apply the slurry to the mould, ensuring you work it into all the details and coat the surface evenly to a thickness of about 1.5mm.

Remember to coat your mould with soft soap liquid and keep it damp before you start applying the slurry. After applying the slurry, you can proceed to make the standard cement fondue mix, which includes sand, and continue with the rest of the steps for creating your sculpture.

By using this slurry technique for small sculptures, you can achieve the desired level of detail and smoothness in your final product.

For outdoor sculptures, mix with fine silica sand

For outdoor sculptures, you will need to mix your cement fondue with fine silica sand. This mixture is quite stiff and won't pick up fine details or create a smooth surface, so it needs to be applied in stages.

First, create a creamy slurry by mixing cement fondue powder with water. This mixture, without sand, is suitable for small sculptures and those kept indoors.

For outdoor sculptures, you will need to add fine silica sand to the mix. Use a ratio of 2 parts fine silica sand to 1 part cement fondue powder. Add just enough water to allow you to apply the mixture with a brush. A plastic cup is a good tool for measuring.

Work on one section of your mould at a time, creating just enough mixture for that section. Apply the slurry to the mould with a brush, working it into the details and coating the surface evenly to a thickness of about 1.5mm. Remember to coat your mould with soft soap liquid and keep it damp.

Next, make the standard cement fondue mix using 1 part cement fondue, 2 parts sand, and 1 part water. This mixture will be very stiff, but as you apply it to the slurry coat, it will absorb some of the water. Press the mixture into the mould, pushing a wave of slurry in front of it. The slurry will be displaced, allowing the cement to fill in the details. Pat the cement firmly into the mould to a thickness of about 6mm. The mix should be firm enough that it cannot be impressed by a finger.

Make a standard cement fondue mix with cement, sand and water

Making a standard cement fondue mix is a simple process, but it does require careful preparation and the right equipment. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you create a standard cement fondue mix with cement, sand and water:

Step 1: Prepare your equipment and materials

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary equipment and materials. You will need:

• Cement fondue powder
• Fine silica sand
• Water
• Mixing tools (e.g. a shovel or a mixing board)
• A container or mixing board
• A sheet of tarpaulin
• Safety equipment, including a mask or mouth protector and safety goggles

Step 2: Measure your ingredients

The standard ratio for a cement fondue mix is 1 part cement fondue powder to 2 parts fine silica sand to 1 part water. Measure out your ingredients accordingly, using separate containers for each.

Step 3: Mix the ingredients

Combine the cement fondue powder and fine silica sand in your mixing container or board. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly, using a shovel or another suitable tool. Create a crater in the middle of the mixture and gradually add water, mixing as you go, until you achieve a smooth paste-like consistency.

Step 4: Test and adjust the mixture

Test the consistency of the mixture by using the edge of your shovel to make imprints or ridges in the surface. The mixture should be smooth and consistent, neither too dry nor too crumbly. If it appears too runny, simply add more of the dry ingredients to adjust the consistency.

Step 5: Clean your equipment

It is important to clean your equipment promptly after use, as the cement mixture can harden and become difficult to remove. Use a power washer or hose to clean any excess mixture from your tools and mixing equipment.

By following these steps, you can create a standard cement fondue mix that is suitable for a variety of applications, including sculpting and moulding. Remember to always wear the appropriate safety equipment when working with cement and take the necessary precautions to protect your skin and eyes from dust and debris.

Reinforce the cast with a fondue slurry and fibreglass mat

To reinforce the cast with a fondue slurry and fibreglass mat, follow these steps:

Firstly, create some more fondue slurry without sand. Paint this slurry onto the layer of pressed ciment. Next, tear off a piece of fibreglass mat and dip it into the slurry. Work the slurry into the fibres by rubbing it between your fingers.

Lay the fibreglass mat in the mould, continuing to apply small pieces until you have covered the mould surface. Brush on some more slurry, ensuring that all the fibreglass is lying flat and even. Then, press a final layer of stiff ciment fondue mix so that the resulting thickness is about 13mm (1/2”). Finally, tamp it down firmly.

Curing, not drying, is required for cement fondue to set

Curing is the process of hardening that begins immediately after the concrete is poured. It is usually mostly complete after 28 days. However, the concrete will continue to harden and strengthen for a significant amount of time afterward.

Concrete that has been allowed to cure for 28 days is about 50% stronger than uncured concrete. The entire curing period takes about a month, but your concrete will be ready for use sooner.

Curing concrete is important because it:

• Retains moisture in the slab so that the concrete continues to gain strength.
• Delays drying shrinkage until the concrete is strong enough to resist shrinkage cracking.
• Improves strength, durability, water tightness, and wear resistance.

Concrete that hasn't been cured is sensitive and easily ruined. Uncured concrete is likely to develop a pattern of fine cracks and, once in use, will have low strength that can result in a dusty surface that has little resistance to abrasion.

Drying refers to the evaporation of excess water from the concrete. While it only takes around 28 days to cure concrete, drying can take months.

Curing cement fondue, rather than letting it dry, is crucial to ensure that your project is strong, durable, and crack-resistant.

Frequently asked questions