ATMs in the microwave

[astillma@nit.AirTouch.COM (Anthony Stillman)]

All this microwave talk reminds me that I use the microwave to de-hydrate plaster of 
Paris.  You have to let it harden over night first and when you put it in only go for 30 
seconds the first time, then let it cool for a few minutes. As the water steams out you 
can leave it in longer.  Eventually the plaster (crystalized gypsum) doesn't get hot at 
all, thats when you know that you have most of the water is out.  If you let the plaster 
overheat it will pock and even explode, so go slow and remember to use cooking mits to 
handle it, it super heats easily.

Why plaster of Paris, well I still make my tools out of this, though I'm going to try 
stucko for the next one.  Incidently, those who say plaster of Paris disintegrates in 
water have clearly never left a piece of hardened plaster of Paris under water for a few 
months.  As for flacking, I have to agree that it does flake and even epoxy doesn't stick 
to it that well.  Thats why I add white glue to the mix after mixing throughly with the 
water.  This stops the flacking and leaves a nice smooth surface that epoxy adheres to 
well.

Anthony