Abstract
In this study, we have proposed a gelatin-based stone (gelatin stone) with a new polishing mechanism that can polish a free-form surface. To clarify the possibility of using a gelatin stone as a fine polishing tool, we experimentally examined its fundamental polishing performance. Two types of gelatin stones (jelly and gummy) were prepared. A convex glass and a pure aluminum plate were used as work materials. The main results obtained are as follows. Polishing the convex glass with the jelly-type gelatin stone improves the surface roughness while maintaining profile accuracy. The surface roughness of the pure aluminum plate can be improved by polishing with the gummy-type gelatin stone, although the polishing cannot yield a mirror-finished surface. The abrasive grains in the gelatin stones can be recovered by incineration at 600-650°C.
