This is a question we receive quite often!

Jesmonite AC100 and AC730 are both versatile and durable casting and laminating materials, commonly used in both the construction and design industries. They do, however, have some key differences.

Jesmonite AC100 is a water-based eco-resin and is widely used to make decorative moulded objects. It is safe to use and contains no harmful chemicals. It has a smooth, fine-grained finish, and is easy to work with.

Jesmonite AC730 is a rapid setting acrylic modified cementitious composite. The system is primarily designed for glass reinforced, lightweight, hand laminated decorative applications, but it can also be used for small decorative castings.

While AC100 is a uniform, off-white material that can be pigmented to any colour you wish, AC730 contains fine, decorative aggretate and powder pigments, carefully controlled to give a consistent decorative surface finish.

To reveal the textured finish of AC730 (which looks similar to cements), it can be etched with an acidic solution such as an acid based brick cleaner, muriatic acid (with careful attention to safety being absolutely mandatory), or even white vinegar for very small pieces. 

AC100 vs AC730 - At a Glance

For more in-depth information, check out the Technical Data Sheets for both AC100 and AC730.

For small, decorative casted objects, such as trinket trays, candle vessels, and similar - both AC730 and AC100 are suitable. The choice comes down to your preference for look, feel, and process.

Want to learn more?

Check out the YouTube video from Jesmonite below.