vapor layer gel (natural recipe)

what are some heat resistant plant bases for creating gels to test?
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When it comes to heat-resistant plant-based materials that could potentially be used to create gels for testing, here are a few suggestions:

    Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing and cooling properties, and it has some degree of heat resistance. While it may not withstand extremely high temperatures, it could be worth exploring its use as a base for cooling gels in fire performance scenarios.

    Carrageenan: Carrageenan is a natural extract derived from red seaweed. It is commonly used as a thickening agent and has some heat resistance properties. It could potentially be utilized as a gel base, providing a cooling and protective layer when applied to the skin.

    Xanthan Gum: Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide produced by the fermentation of sugar with the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris. It is often used as a thickening and stabilizing agent in various products. While it may not have significant heat resistance on its own, it could be combined with other heat-resistant materials to create a gel with desirable properties.

    Chia Seed Gel: Chia seeds, when mixed with water, form a gel-like substance. While the heat resistance of chia seed gel may be limited, it could potentially be used as a base in combination with other heat-resistant ingredients to explore gel formulations.

It's important to note that the heat resistance of plant-based materials can vary, and their performance in high-temperature environments may require further testing and experimentation. It is advisable to consult with experts in materials science or seek guidance from professionals experienced in working with plant-based ingredients for their insights and recommendations.

Additionally, ensure that any plant-based materials used are safe for application on the skin and do not cause adverse reactions or skin irritations. Prioritize safety and perform thorough research and testing before using any new gel formulations in fire performance settings.

Me

what is the best way to make aloe vera gel considering it is being used for the purposes we have discussed?

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To make aloe vera gel for the purposes we have discussed, here is a general process you can follow:

    Select Fresh Aloe Vera Leaves: Choose mature, healthy aloe vera leaves that are free from any damage or blemishes. Look for thick leaves that feel firm to the touch.

    Wash the Leaves: Rinse the aloe vera leaves under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris from the outer surface.

    Remove the Gel: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off the spiky edges of the leaves. Then, cut open the leaves lengthwise to expose the gel-filled interior.

    Extract the Gel: With a spoon or a butter knife, gently scrape out the gel from the leaf. Collect the gel in a clean bowl. Be cautious not to include any yellowish sap (aloe latex) that may be present near the inner skin of the leaf, as it can cause irritation.

    Blend the Gel: Transfer the collected gel into a blender or food processor. Blend it on low speed until you achieve a smooth and consistent gel texture. This step helps remove any remaining lumps or fibers.

    Optional: Add Preservatives (If Desired): If you plan to store the gel for an extended period, you can consider adding natural preservatives like vitamin E oil or small amounts of citric acid to prolong its shelf life. However, note that the addition of preservatives is optional, and it's generally recommended to use freshly made aloe vera gel for the best results.

    Store and Use: Transfer the aloe vera gel into a clean, airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and extend its shelf life. Remember to label the container with the date of preparation.

When using the aloe vera gel for the purposes we discussed, ensure that you perform a patch test on a small area of your skin before applying it more extensively. This will help ensure that you do not have any adverse reactions or allergies to the gel.

Please note that while aloe vera gel has some natural cooling and soothing properties, it may not provide significant heat resistance. It's important to prioritize safety, adhere to proper fire safety precautions, and consult with experts in fire performance for comprehensive risk management.

Me

would it be possible to add the cooling agents like menthol or mint directly to the gel?

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Yes, it is possible to add cooling agents like menthol or mint to aloe vera gel to enhance its cooling properties. Here's a suggested method to incorporate cooling agents into the gel:

    Prepare the Aloe Vera Gel: Follow the steps mentioned earlier to extract and blend the aloe vera gel until it reaches a smooth consistency.

    Cool the Gel: Place the blended aloe vera gel in the refrigerator for a short period to cool it down. This step will help prevent the cooling agents from degrading or losing their potency when mixed with the gel.

    Add Cooling Agents: Once the gel has cooled but is still in a semi-liquid state, you can add the desired cooling agents. For example:
        Menthol: Crush menthol crystals into a fine powder and gradually sprinkle them into the gel while stirring. Continue adding and stirring until you achieve the desired cooling level. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your preference.
        Mint Oil: Add a few drops of pure mint essential oil to the gel and mix it well. Adjust the quantity based on the strength of the oil and your desired cooling effect. Be cautious not to add excessive amounts, as mint oil can be quite potent.

    Blend or Stir: Blend or stir the gel gently to ensure the cooling agents are evenly distributed. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a blender or food processor on low speed for a short duration.

    Test and Adjust: Perform a patch test on a small area of your skin to ensure you do not have any adverse reactions or sensitivities to the cooling agents. If necessary, you can make adjustments to the cooling agent quantities to achieve the desired cooling effect.

Remember to label the container with the date of preparation and store the gel in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

It's important to note that menthol and mint oil are potent substances, so it's crucial to use them in moderation and avoid excessive concentrations that could cause skin irritation or discomfort. If you have any specific allergies or sensitivities, consult with a healthcare professional or dermatologist before adding these cooling agents to the gel.

Always prioritize safety and perform patch tests before applying the gel more extensively.