Gypsum plaster primarily includes calcium sulphate hemihydrate, which is a white powder. Gypsum plaster is mainly formed by heating gypsum at 248–356 °F. The temperature is not exceeded beyond 392° F as it forms anhydrite. The use of plaster of Paris is very extensive.
Why Is Plaster of Paris Used Extensively?
There are many benefits to using plaster of Paris. It is a versatile material. Therefore, it can be used for various purposes. It is very easy to work with and mould into any shape you need. It dries quickly and is very strong when hardened. Whether you’re a professional or hobbyist, plaster of Paris is an excellent material for various categories of works.
Gypsum Plaster Of Paris How To Use?
During ancient times clay plaster was used in early utopian villages. Clay plaster was a mixture of sand, clay, and water. Plant fibres were added to it.
Mineral bassanite is natural gypsum plaster. When water is added to the plaster powder, it rehydrates to form gypsum.
- There are many uses of Gypsum. It is used in hospitals for setting the fractured bones
- Utilised to make casts in dentistry.
- Used to make cosmetics, chalk, decorative materials, statue casts, ornaments, toys and blackboards.
- It is often used as fireproof material
- Idly used in labs in apparatus to seal the air gaps.
Uses Of Cement Plaster
Cement plaster is an easy and fast material to use, and it is also fire-resistant. Additionally, it is an environmentally friendly option because it does not require a lot of water to use in the manufacturing process.
Cement plaster is a versatile and affordable material used in various applications, including residential, commercial, and public projects.
Cement plaster is a durable option that can last for many years without requiring any maintenance. It can be used in low-income areas because it is affordable and easy to install.
Uses Of Lime Plaster
The lime plaster is mixed with water and other materials and then applied to the desired area. It is then allowed to dry and can be painted or finished with a sealant.
Lime plaster is mainly used to fill cavities and cracks in walls and ceilings and is also famous for use as an exterior coating.
Lime plaster has some benefits that make it a popular choice for various applications. It is a relatively easy product to work with and is not difficult to remove if necessary. It has a long lifespan and is resistant to weathering and decay.
It has a high resistance to moisture, which makes it ideal for use in areas subject to high humidity levels. It has a low cost of ownership and can be used in various applications.
How Is Plaster of Paris Applied?
The plaster of Paris is combined with water during application. Make sure that any cracks, holes, or seams are repaired. Before plastering, dust must also be eliminated. It may be challenging to obtain a smooth, crack-free, glossy finish without sufficient surface preparation. When mixing with water, always add the gypsum plaster to the water, not the other way around. It enhances the application’s consistency and helps prevent lumps from forming.
Do not overmix the ingredients. The best time to mix is 1-2 minutes. Complete the mixing in less than 2 minutes and more than a minute. You may not be able to achieve the proper consistency and smoothness of the finish if you overmix the plaster. On the other hand, undermixing causes the plaster to separate and peel away from the surface.
Do not soak the plaster in water for too long. The plaster may begin to settle and harden as a result of this. Using soiled buckets, contaminated tools, contaminated water, or soiled drills can impact the quality of the plastering job. At every stage of the plastering process, clean the equipment, tools, and machinery.
Conclusion
Plaster of Paris is lightweight, and using it for plastering does not add to the structural strain on the building. Unlike cement plaster, gypsum plaster does not shrink throughout the drying and hardening process. It is less likely to crack.
Gypsum is non-combustible and rich in crystal water. It works as a fire barrier, protecting the blockwork, concrete, and steel. Metal fittings, such as pipes, are protected from rusting with gypsum plaster, boosting their endurance. Gypsum plaster has a low thermal conductivity, which saves energy and power. High tensile and flexural strength are provided by gypsum plaster.