Mica pigments are made by mining and refining mica minerals, which are then ground into a fine powder. The mica powder is coated with various oxides, such as titanium dioxide or iron oxide, to produce different colors. This coating process is key, as it determines the pigment's final color and properties. The coated mica is then heat-treated to fix the colors and enhance stability. The quality of the final pigment depends on the purity of the mica, the uniformity of the coating, and the heat treatment process. These pigments are widely used in industries such as cosmetics, automotive, and arts due to their shimmering appearance, stability, and non-toxic properties.

The best epoxy for metal often depends on the specific application, but a general standout is the two-part epoxy known as J-B Weld Original Cold-Weld Formula. It provides a strong and durable bond, resistant to high temperatures, chemicals, and impact. This makes it suitable for automotive repairs, household fixes, and industrial applications where a strong bond is essential. Its versatility across various metals, including iron, steel, aluminum, and brass, among others, contributes to its reputation as the go-to metal epoxy. Additionally, it cures to a dark grey color, which can be sanded, filed, painted, and drilled after curing, making it not only strong but also adaptable for cosmetic finishes.

No, PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is not a thermoset; it is actually a thermoplastic. Thermoplastics, like PVC, become soft and moldable upon heating and return to a solid state upon cooling. This process can be repeated multiple times without significantly altering the material's chemical structure or its properties. In contrast, thermosetting plastics, once cured (set) through heating, undergo a chemical change that renders them inflexible and unable to be remolded. PVC is widely used in construction for pipes, in healthcare for flexible tubing, and in the manufacture of window frames and clothing, thanks to its durability, resistance to environmental degradation, electrical insulation properties, and ability to be recycled or modified into various grades.