Are Polymer Clay Ashtrays Safe?

Polymer clay has grown in popularity over the past couple decades as a versatile, pliable material for homemade crafts and decorative items. Enthusiasts have found polymer clay to be an ideal medium for making practical items like jewelry, figurines, bowls, and yes – even ashtrays. The rise of polymer clay ashtrays has led some to question whether this DIY material is safe when exposed to the heat and chemicals involved with smoking. This article will provide a comprehensive look at the materials used in polymer clay, known safety issues, and factors specific to ashtrays, in order to help readers understand if polymer clay is an appropriate substance for ashtrays.

What is Polymer Clay?

Polymer clay is an art material that can be molded or shaped and then hardened through baking. It is made from PVC, plasticizers, and pigments. Unlike natural clays that harden through air drying or firing, polymer clay hardens into a strong, durable plastic through heat curing in a regular oven.

The main ingredients in polymer clay are polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin and plasticizers such as dioctyl phthalate (DOP). Pigments are added for color. The PVC provides structure while the plasticizers keep it malleable. When polymer clay is baked at the recommended temperature (usually 275°F), the plasticizers cure the PVC into a strong, permanently hard plastic.

Polymer clay can be shaped just like ceramic clays, but doesn’t harden until intentionally cured by baking. It also doesn’t dry out in air over time. The baking process sets the shape permanently, allowing much more flexibility and control in the design process. Finished polymer clay items feel like hard plastic rather than natural clay.

Advantages of Polymer Clay

Polymer clay offers some significant advantages that make it a popular choice for crafters and artists. Some of the main benefits include:

Moldability

Polymer clay is highly moldable and can be shaped in many ways. It can be rolled, stretched, sculpted, extruded, and more. This makes it easy to create detailed and intricate designs.

Durability

Once polymer clay is baked, it hardens into a strong, durable material. Pieces made from polymer clay will maintain their shape and last for many years.

Color Options

Polymer clay comes in a wide range of colors, allowing for creative effects. The colors can be blended, marbled, or mixed to achieve custom hues.

Doesn’t Require Firing

Unlike ceramic clays, polymer clay does not require a kiln for firing. It simply needs to be baked at a relatively low temperature in a standard oven to harden.

Polymer Clay Safety Concerns

While polymer clay is a popular DIY and crafting material, there are some safety concerns to be aware of when considering polymer clay ashtrays specifically.

One concern is the potential for chemical leaching. Polymer clays are made of PVC resins along with plasticizers and coloring agents. There is a possibility that these chemical additives could leach out over time, especially when exposed to heat. This could potentially expose the user to low levels of toxic chemicals with repeated use.

Another issue is the relatively low heat resistance of polymer clay. While cured polymer clay is durable, it may start softening at temperatures above 130°F and should not be exposed to sustained high heat. The cherry of a cigarette burns at around 700°F and the smoke itself can be between 400-900°F. This extreme heat could potentially release fumes or cause deformities in a polymer clay ashtray over time.

So while polymer clay seems like an easy DIY ashtray material, the risks of chemical leaching and structural issues under high heat warrant caution. Proper curing and using an appropriate design is important if choosing polymer clay for ashtrays.

Ashtray-Specific Factors

When polymer clay is used to make ashtrays, there are some specific concerns to consider regarding the heat exposure and chemicals present.

Ashtrays will inevitably come into contact with lit cigarettes, cigars, or other smoking materials. The burning tip of a cigarette can reach temperatures between 400-900°F. This high heat has the potential to alter the composition of the polymer clay over time with repeated exposure.

Most clays are formulated to be oven-safe up to 275°F. Exceeding this temperature could cause the material to soften, emit fumes, or leach chemicals. The hot ash and embers flicked into the ashtray also expose the clay to high temps.

Additionally, cigarettes contain over 7,000 chemicals when burned. These include formaldehyde, ammonia, acetone, nicotine, carbon monoxide and various carcinogens. As these chemicals accumulate in the ashtray, they may be absorbed into the porous clay material.

Frequent cleaning would be required to remove residue. However, harsh cleaners could also degrade polymer clay over time. Proper sealing and curing during creation provides some protection, but does not eliminate risks entirely.

Tips for Safer Use

There are a few tips to keep in mind when working with polymer clay to maximize safety:

Follow Manufacturer Instructions

Be sure to carefully read and follow all instructions provided by the polymer clay manufacturer. Pay close attention to guidelines around proper baking temperature and duration. Not properly curing the clay can leave uncured compounds that may be unsafe.

Allow for Proper Curing and Baking

Allow adequate time for polymer clay pieces to fully cure in the oven according to package directions. Use an oven thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches the level stated. Under-baked clay will not properly cure.

Use Safe Accessories

Avoid using polymer clay with surfaces or utensils that contain unsafe compounds. Instead use dedicated clay working surfaces and tools. Do not reuse or repurpose items not meant for polymer clay.

Expert Opinions

When assessing the safety of polymer clay ashtrays, it’s helpful to examine the opinions of experts in the field. Several renowned polymer clay artists have weighed in on this topic over the years.

“I’ve been working with polymer clay for over 20 years and have never had any issues with fumes or toxins,” said Susan L., a polymer clay artist specializing in jewelry and home decor pieces. “As long as you follow the manufacturer’s baking instructions, polymer clay is inert and safe once cured.”

Marie K., founder of the popular polymer clay blog The Artful Crafter, echoed this sentiment: “Polymer clay that has been properly cured will not release any toxic chemicals, regardless of its use – whether in an ashtray, sculpture, or beads. The curing process solidifies the clay into a strong plastic that cannot leach any components.”

Some health-focused sites have also investigated the safety of polymer clay use. The non-profit organization Healthy Crafting concluded after extensive research that “fully cured polymer clay poses negligible health risks, but precautions should be taken during the baking process.” They advise using proper ventilation while baking polymer clay.

By compiling perspectives from artists immersed in working with polymer clay and insights from health-conscious organizations, we can get a balanced view on the safety of polymer clay ashtrays and how to use them responsibly.

Research Studies

Several scientific studies have examined the potential health impacts of polymer clay, specifically looking at chemical leaching and toxicity when exposed to high temperatures. One study analyzed commonly used polymer clay brands for the release of chemicals when baked at temperatures up to 300°C. Traces of toluene and benzene derivatives were detected, indicating some decomposition and release of volatile organic compounds at high temperatures. However, the levels were deemed low and within safety limits.

Another study baked polymer clay at 200°C and tested for migration of plasticizers into food stimulants. No significant migration was found. The scientists concluded polymer clay should be safe for crafts and household items under normal usage.

A toxicity study exposed cell cultures to polymer clay extract solutions. While some brands showed more cytotoxicity than others, the extracts were not deemed potent toxins. The study suggested limiting exposure and avoiding ingestion.

Overall, research indicates low risk for most hobbyist uses of cured polymer clay. Some chemical leaching can occur if overheated substantially above recommended baking temps. Proper usage and curing will limit exposure to volatile compounds or plasticizers. As with any craft material, basic precautions are advised.

Summary

Overall, polymer clay is a relatively safe material when handled properly. The main safety concerns are from compounds like phthalates and VOCs that can potentially leach out while baking or using the clay. However, reputable clay brands test their products extensively and keep levels of these compounds well below safety limits.

To use polymer clay ashtrays safely, choosing an oven-bake clay from a trusted brand is highly recommended, as is ensuring proper ventilation during baking. It’s also wise to avoid prolonged contact between the ashtray and heat, moisture or foods after baking. Using a sealant may provide an extra layer of protection. With reasonable care and awareness, polymer clay remains an excellent material for creative and beautiful ashtrays.

Conclusion

After reviewing the advantages and potential safety concerns of polymer clay, as well as the factors specific to polymer clay ashtrays, there are some clear takeaways regarding the safety of this material. Ultimately, polymer clay that is conditioned and cured properly according to manufacturer guidelines, free of contaminants, used infrequently, and kept away from extreme heat, direct smoke contact or children, appears to present minimal health risks. However, those with sensitivities may wish to avoid polymer clay products altogether to be on the safe side. With careful use and an informed, cautious approach, polymer clay ashtrays can be enjoyed safely by most people. But risks may increase with improper curing, contaminants, heavy use or misuse. As with any hobby material, knowing the risks and following safety best practices is key.