Most of the simulated dinosaur models in the theme parks are made up of silica gels. However, there are some theme parks who use fiberglass for making dinosaur models. In fact, both the material act as a realistic dinosaur costume.
Difference between these two materials
Silicon uses a sponge base and then applies silicone to the skin and is often considered for its softness whereas fiberglass material is hard and has the potential to prevent damage due to human factors.
What is Silica Gel?
Silica gels is a desiccant which means it can absorb and hold water vapor for a long time. Silica gels are so harmless that it is used in almost every product including food products, leather products, and electronics. Silica gel can absorb around 40 percent of the moisture and help in reducing the relative humidity in a closed container.
What is Fiberglass?
Just like other types of glass, fiberglass is also made up of real glass. In order to reduce the thickness of the glass, it is heated until molten and then is forced through superfine holes. The pieces of glasses are then woven into larger swatches of material. Once it is woven together, companies add different types of resins to increase its strength and to allow it to be molded into different shapes. Remember, fiberglass is neither glass-reinforced plastic nor it is carbon plastic, however, it is similar to both of them.
Simulated Dinosaur Model From Silica Gel
Simulated dinosaur model made up of silica gel provides more elasticity and realistic touch when compared with models made up of fiberglass. You can easily install the motor inside to make the transmission structure and the electric simulation dinosaur model from silica gel. However, once you add the motor control program, you cannot mold the silicone material and hence the overall cost increases. Also, Silicon is the most common material used for simulated dinosaur model as it also resists the sun and the rain. The only disadvantage of using silica gel is that it can easily be torn by tourists, as a result, the maintenance cost increases.
Simulated Dinosaur Model From Fiberglass
The simulated dinosaur model made up of fiberglass is called as sculpture. The shape of the sculpture made up of fiberglass is more delicate than the one made up of silica gel. The production process starts with shaping the mud and molding it so that you can make all the models of the same size with glass fiber reinforced plastic. Since the surface of the sculpture is hard you cannot create dynamic effects using a motor. In fact, the material is so hard that it can prevent human damage factors. This way you can keep the sculpture outside for a long time without destroying it. However, there are chances that the harsh sun rays and rain can result in fading and cracking.
Which is Better: Silica Gel or Fiberglass?
When it comes to creating a simulated dinosaur model, it really depends on what you want to achieve from the model. Is it for viewing from a distant place or do you want to give the realistic feeling of dinosaur skin to the tourists, where do you want to place it? Indoors or outdoors?
Models created from fiberglass are best suited outdoors as they are strong and can endure the harsh climate (sun and the rain) for a long time, however, models created from silica gel give a realistic feeling to the people touching it. Therefore, make sure you decide these things before choosing a material.
Conclusion
Though you can make a simulated dinosaur model with both silica gel and fiberglass, you should know the difference between the two to use the right material that reflects your business and saves you money. If you’re looking for a soft material that tourists can enjoy then silica gel is the best choice, however, the risk of it getting torn is also high. But, if you want to keep the simulated dinosaur model in the outside then fiberglass is the best choice as it is hard enough to prevent certain human damage factors.
