The RD-407 Bat Black is a pre-coloured black natural casting latex, formulated specifically for use with plaster moulds. With over 50 years of history and an especially dense pigmentation, it allows you to produce masks, props and prosthetics with excellent detail reproduction, rapid skin build-up and clean demoulding — no painting or pigmenting required afterwards.
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|
| Material type | Natural casting latex (pre-vulcanised) |
| Colour | Black (Bat Black, pre-coloured) |
| Cure | Air drying, no additional processing |
| Recommended mould | Plaster |
| Application method | casting or brushing |
| Components | One component (ready to use) |
| Direct skin use | NOT suitable |
What it is used for
The RD-407 Bat Black is the go-to material for mask makers and special effects professionals who need a dense black latex ready to use without additional painting stages. Its most common applications are:
- Manufacturing latex masks over plaster moulds
- Production of flexible props and rubber figures for film, theatre and events
- Making character prosthetics over a mould (do not apply directly to skin)
- Creating costume pieces with natural texture and flexibility
- Reproducing fine details in moulds with complex geometry
- FX projects requiring highly pigmented black rubber with no post-painting
How to use it
- Prepare the plaster mould, making sure it is completely dry. A damp mould slows down the cure and can affect demoulding.
- Gently shake the RD-407 Bat Black container before use to homogenise the pigment and latex.
- Apply the first coat: pour the latex into the mould (casting technique) or apply it with a brush. Cover the entire surface evenly.
- Leave to air dry until the coat is translucent or completely dry to the touch. Time varies depending on thickness and ambient conditions.
- Apply successive coats until the desired thickness is achieved. Each coat must be dry before adding the next.
- Once the final thickness is reached, allow to cure fully before demoulding.
- Demould carefully, gently stretching the latex from the edges. The resulting piece is elastic and durable.
- If you wish to add a surface gloss, apply Flex Gloss onto the already demoulded piece.
Important notice: RD-407 Bat Black contains natural latex and ammonia as a preservative. It is not suitable for direct application on bare human skin. Always work in a well-ventilated space, wearing gloves and eye protection. People with natural latex allergies must take extreme precautions and avoid contact. Keep out of reach of children.
Usage tips
The plaster mould — key to the result
The RD-407 is optimised for use with plaster. Use a quality plaster such as EXADURO or Arquero to ensure the mould correctly absorbs the moisture from the latex and accelerates skin formation. A very dense or sealed mould will not absorb the moisture and the cure will slow down considerably.
Controlling thickness and flexibility
The more coats you apply, the thicker and (relatively) stiffer the final piece will be. For regular-use masks, between 6 and 10 coats are usually sufficient. For props requiring greater consistency, you can increase the number of coats. Remember to let each coat dry completely before applying the next to avoid the inner latex remaining uncured.
Painting and finishing over cured latex
Although the Bat Black already incorporates a very dense black pigment that in many cases eliminates the need for painting, if you need to add details, ageing effects or colour, use Mask Paint, formulated specifically to adhere to cured latex without cracking. Paints not formulated for latex tend to crack when the piece is flexed.
Frequently asked questions
Does mask latex need vulcanisation or any special process to cure?
No. The RD-407 Bat Black is a pre-vulcanised latex that cures solely by evaporation of water into the air. It requires no oven, catalyst or any additional process. Simply leave the coats to dry in a well-ventilated environment.
Can I use this latex in silicone or polyurethane moulds?
The RD-407 is formulated specifically for plaster moulds. Plaster is porous and absorbs the moisture from the latex, which promotes rapid skin formation. In non-porous moulds (silicone, polyurethane) the cure is much slower and results are uneven. It is always recommended to use plaster moulds.
How many coats do I need to apply for a normal-use mask?
For a standard mask for events or character work, between 6 and 10 coats are typical. For decorative props with lower mechanical demands, 4–6 coats may suffice. For pieces that will receive heavy use or stress, increase the number of coats. The key is that each coat must be completely dry before applying the next.
Can I apply this latex directly to skin for character work?
No. The RD-407 Bat Black is not formulated for direct application on bare human skin. It contains ammonia and has not been developed to the safety standards of cosmetic products intended for dermal use. For prosthetics and skin effects, consult the specific products in the Feroca catalogue designed for that purpose.
What is the difference between Bat Black and the white or natural version of the RD-407?
The difference is exclusively the colour. The Bat Black incorporates high-density black pigment directly in the formulation, avoiding the need to paint the piece afterwards when a black finish is desired. The Halloween White version is pre-coloured white. The technical behaviour, viscosity and application process are the same in both versions.
How can I paint or decorate a piece of already cured latex?
Use latex-specific paints such as Mask Paint. Conventional paints do not have the necessary flexibility and crack when the piece is bent or stretched. If you want a glossy finish, apply Flex Gloss over the finished piece.
How long does each coat take to dry?
Drying time depends on coat thickness, temperature and ambient humidity. Under normal workshop conditions (20–25°C, moderate humidity), a thin coat can be dry to the touch in 15–30 minutes. With gentle heat or a fan promoting air circulation, the process can be speeded up. Do not apply intense direct heat, as it can cause bubbles or uneven curing.
Can mask latex be stored once opened?
Yes. Close the container tightly after each use and store it in a cool place, away from direct light and extreme cold (do not refrigerate below 5°C). Natural latex may form a surface film if exposed to air; carefully remove it before using the product again. Do not shake it vigorously to avoid introducing bubbles.
