I'll definitely be doing testing of silicone and the other materials I plan to use. I don't plan on needing clay for the various sizes of scales because I've found that small lionspaw shells are my ideal scale shape and detail.

I know that it will probably be more expensive than other tails because of the custom fin construction and length of it covering my chest. But originally, I knew it would be expensive, and I'm planning a minimum budget of $5000. I'm sure I'll be able to save up that much money for it in ten years, if not five. I'm still young, and I don't need my tail now. (:

I'm not actually too worried about the construction or safety, since the build of the "monofin" type "ribs" will be built just like a monofin around the foot area. Thank you for your concerns though- I'll definitely be researching more about it.