# @stem_antics on Instagram

- **Type:** Video
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DTx2falEZ06
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/61936118-stem-antics-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/014e4918c3.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-01-21T16:11:17.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Stem Antics (@stem_antics) — https://gondola.cc/stem_antics

## Caption

Silk plaster isn’t just a décor trend — it’s applied materials science in action 🧪🧱

Silk plaster (also called liquid wallpaper) is a composite wall coating made from cellulose fibers, silk or cotton threads, mineral fillers, and polymer binders. When mixed with water, it forms a viscoelastic paste that’s spread directly onto walls, where physics and chemistry do the rest.

How it works (technically):
• Capillary absorption: Cellulose fibers absorb water, allowing uniform distribution during application
• Polymer binding: Adhesive polymers create intermolecular bonding as water evaporates
• Fiber interlocking: Silk/cotton fibers mechanically entangle, increasing tensile strength
• Porosity control: Micro air pockets improve thermal and acoustic insulation
• Diffusion permeability: Allows walls to “breathe,” reducing moisture trapping and mold risk

Why it’s used:
• Seamless wall finishes (no joints like traditional wallpaper)
• Crack masking due to elastic fiber networks
• Thermal & sound insulation from porous structure
• Repairable — damaged areas can be rehydrated and reapplied
• Low VOCs compared to solvent-based paints

This is a great real-world example of materials engineering + surface chemistry quietly shaping everyday environments.

Save this if you like seeing STEM hidden in plain sight — and comment if you want a breakdown comparing silk plaster vs paint vs wallpaper 👇

#MaterialsScience #STEMEducation #AppliedPhysics #ConstructionTech #SurfaceEngineering

## Stats

- **Views:** 5,934
- **Likes:** 133
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 2

## Tags

appliedphysics, materialsscience, stemeducation, surfaceengineering, constructiontech

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