A number of types of gypsum products are in use all over the world. In fact, humans have been utilizing this mineral for centuries, primarily in construction, and it has a number of uses which are sometimes surprising to learn about. A variety of products feature gypsum as a major ingredient, and many others involve gypsum in their manufacture; while the mineral may not be readily identifiable, it can be an important part of the product.
Chapter 3 Gypsum Products for Dental Casts 3.1 Introduction. Gypsum is a naturally occurring, white powdery mineral with the chemical name calcium sulphate dihydrate (CaSQ 4 2H 2 O). Gypsum products used in dentistry are based on calcium sulphate hemihydrate (CaSO4 2) 2 H 2 O. Their main uses are for casts or models, dies and investments, the latter being considered in Chapter 5.
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The most famous group of gypsum products is probably plasters. Plaster of Paris is traditionally made with gypsum, and gypsum is also used to make alabaster and an assortment of other plasters used in art and in the creation of molds. Gypsum plasters are also used in texturing; for example, gypsum products can be run through a spray gun to create a textured wall or ceiling. Many building plasters contain gypsum, including compounds used to prepare walls for painting.
Other gypsum products used in construction include joint compounds and plasters used as backings during the installation of products such as tile. Finer gypsum plasters can also be used to make decorative molding. Wallboard, also known as gypsum board, Sheetrock, or drywall, also contains gypsum. This product can be treated to resist moisture, mold, and fungi, and is available in a range of sizes and thicknesses for different applications.