Plaster of Paris is a popular material used in various construction projects, arts and crafts, and medical applications. However, many people often confuse it with regular plaster. In this article, we will explore the differences between plaster of Paris and plaster.
What is Plaster?
Plaster is a building material that has been used for centuries to create smooth walls and ceilings. It is usually made from gypsum, which is a soft sulfate mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate. Plaster is commonly used in construction to create decorative finishes or to cover walls and ceilings.
What is Plaster of Paris?
Plaster of Paris, on the other hand, is a specific type of plaster that has been mixed with water to form a paste-like substance. It gets its name from the fact that it was first used in Paris in the 1700s to create decorative moldings and sculptures.
How are they different?
The main difference between plaster and plaster of Paris is their chemical composition. Plaster is made from gypsum which has been heated to remove the water molecules, leaving behind a dry powder that hardens when mixed with water. In contrast, plaster of Paris contains gypsum that has been partially dehydrated by heating it at high temperatures.
Uses
Plaster can be used for various purposes such as creating smooth finishes on walls or ceilings or making molds for casting objects. Plaster of Paris, on the other hand, is primarily used for casting objects such as sculptures or pottery.
Setting time
Another major difference between these two materials is their setting time. Plaster takes longer to set than plaster of Paris because it needs more water to form a workable paste. On the other hand, plaster of Paris sets quickly due to its partial dehydration process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both plaster and plaster of Paris have similar uses, they are not the same material. Plaster is made from gypsum that has been heated to remove water molecules, while plaster of Paris is made from partially dehydrated gypsum. Knowing the differences between these two materials can help you choose the right one for your project.