Plastiform

Organic hydrocarbon polymer produced by errant Precursor machines

Plastiform is found in the wilds of the Merikan Zones as well as the Forbidden Zone. It is a durable, lightweight substance with that is both highly malleable and ductile. Very few know the true source of plastiform, but it is commonly known to periodically form in specific locations. These areas are sometimes called "plastiform groves" and they tend to occur in secluded wilds where there is little human interference. The plastiform "blooms" around organic matter, creating symmetrical shapes and patterns that seem to mirror the forms found in the surrounding environment. It is not unusual to find a mass of plastiform cast in the shape of a small tree or bush with all of the individual branches, canes, and leaves replicated in the process.

Properties

Material Characteristics

Raw plastiform is a whitish colour with a dull translucent sheen. It is odourless. Its flat surfaces are generally smooth to the touch and have a feel that is both sticky and slippery when rubbed. When plastiform is shaped into a fine edge or point, however, it can be very sharp. The most common natural raw shape the substance forms in is that of a flower-like bloom.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Plastiform is far more malleable and ductile than any metal and it has a low melting point which allows for it to be moulded into a great variety of shapes. Items shaped from solid plastiform are very durable and long-lasting.

Geology & Geography

The greatest plastiform groves accessible to the Merikan nations are found in the Larada Zone. There are a number of such groves in the Forbidden Zone as well, including the now uncontrollably spreading Plastiform Briarwoods of Tigerpaw Baidu.

Origin & Source

Many attest that the plastiform groves tend to produce new plastiform after the occurrence of lightning storms, and there are several anecdotal accounts that corroborate these claims. In the Forbidden Zone, this potential link has been supposed to be an indication of the involvement of the Thunderbird. Those who hold this belief subsequently regard plastiform as a divine gift of the sun god.

History & Usage

Everyday use

Laradans and other Merikans use plastiform for a variety of mundane household applications, most commonly for hand tools that require blunt durability. These items are lightweight and far easier to produce than similar metal implements.

Those who consider plastirform to be sacred have other, more conspicuous uses for it. The Pimacan and Azoturian priests of the Forbidden Zone use plastiform to create elaborate and unique holy vestments. In order to do this, they melt the plastiform down and while it is cooling they extrude it through a ceramic press to create fine fibers. Because of its high ductility, these plastiform fibers may then be spun into strong threads usable in textile weaving. The addition of metal-based dyes to the melting and extrusion process allows garment makers to create a variety of unusual decorative styles unmatched by conventional cotton or wool fabrics.

Type

Polymer