Abstract: A tool for use in forming molded articles, comprising a tool body formed of a ceramic material preferably porous with a porosity of between 40% and 60% and in the form of a foam. The tool body is profiled to define the mold surface(s) of the tool. The outer surface of the tool can be sealed with epoxy sealant to provide the mold surface(s) of the tool. An elastomeric layer can be applied to the surface(s) of the tool body and a resinous material, such as a fiber reinforced material, applied to the elastomeric layer, wherein the elastomeric layer inhibits the movement of resin from the resinous layer into the porous ceramic body, and the resinous layer defines the mold surface.

Abstract: A tool (10) for use in forming moulded articles, comprising a tool body (12) formed of a ceramic material, preferably porous with a porosity of between 40% and 60% and in the form of a foam. The tool body (12) is profiled to define the mould surface(s) of the tool (10). The outer surface (11) of the tool (10) can be sealed with epoxy sealant to provide the mould surface(s) of the tool. An elastomeric layer (16) can be applied to the surface(s) of the tool body (12) and a resinous material (14), such as a fibre reinforced material, applied to the elastomeric layer (16), wherein the elastomeric layer (16) inhibits the movement of resin from the resinous layer (14) into the porous ceramic body, and the resinous layer (14) defines the mould surface.