journal
OXIDE EXPERIMENTS
Materials:
Sand, White Cement, Lime, Marble Powder, Pigments
We tried a few different shades to blend in with the earthy colours of the Attangudi Tile and theHollow Jack Arch block, used in the central space of the Koyya House. We worked with shades of Terracotta, for the oxide walls of the Pooja Room.
Dry mix:
The starting layer for the sample is a thick layer of the dry mix which consists of sand and cement in the ratio of 2:1 (sand: cement). Sand can vary from 2-2.5.
Oxide-dry mix:
The oxide colours need to be mixed really well. They are sieved, then hand mixed and then sieved again and then hand-mixed for the second time. The hand mixing is done by rubbing the powder in a circular motion so that any knots and lumps begin to break down.
Once the dry mix is done. The oxide layer is mixed with water when ready to be applied onto the surface. The mix can dry quickly so the water is mixed near the area of application only once all other things are ready.
Oxide layer:
The oxide layer is only 3-4mm thick. It is a mixture of Cement (white or/and grey), Lime, Marble and colours. By varying the proportions, we were able to obtain different shades and colours.
Application:
The oxide coat is applied in smooth long strokes. For wall application, a flat tool is prefered in combination with a brush, that can be used for touch up. The idea is to be smooth and quick, as the layer is thin and will dry fast.
Curing, sanding and waxing:
After completion of the application, the oxide is left for curing for atleast 10days. Once the curing is complete it is left to dry for two days after which the whole surface is rubbed with sandpaper and then wax is applied with the use of coconut husk, twice to give it that final shine.
dry mix:
2:1 (sand: cement)
oxide dry mix:
4 white cement
1 marble powder
1 lime
1 red pigment
1/2 yellow pigment
oxide dry mix:
sieved and hand-mixed twice.
oxide wet mix:
The oxide layer is mixed with water.
tools:
A flat tool is preferred in combination with a brush.
application and curing:
The idea is to be smooth and quick, as the layer is thin and will dry fast. Cured for at least 10 days.
Sample 1
Sample 2
Sample 3
Sample 4
Sample 5
Sample 6
Sample 1:
4 white cement
1 marble powder
1 lime
1/4 red pigment
1/4 yellow pigment
Sample 2:
4 white cement
1 marble powder
1 lime
1 red pigment
1/2 yellow pigment
Sample 3:
4 white cement
1 marble powder
1 lime
1/2 red pigment
2 yellow pigment
Sample 4:
4 white cement
1 marble powder
1/4 red pigment
1/4 yellow pigment
1/4 grey pigmen
Sample 5:
4 white cement
1 marble powder
1 lime
1/4 red pigment
1 yellow pigment
Sample 6:
3 white cement
1 marble powder
2 lime
related work:
