What Is the Difference Between Plaster and Plaster of Paris?

By Anna Duncan

Plaster and plaster of Paris are two materials that are commonly used in construction and art. Although they may sound similar, there are significant differences between the two. In this article, we will explore the differences between plaster and plaster of Paris.

What Is Plaster?

Plaster is a building material that is used for coating walls and ceilings. It is made from gypsum, which is a naturally occurring mineral. Plaster has been used for thousands of years in construction due to its durability and fire-resistant properties.

There are several types of plaster available on the market, each with its own unique properties. Some common types of plaster include:

  • Lime plaster: made from lime, sand, and water.
  • Cement plaster: made from cement, sand, and water.
  • Gypsum plaster: made from gypsum, sand, and water.

What Is Plaster of Paris?

Plaster of Paris, on the other hand, is a type of gypsum plaster that is commonly used for art projects. It is made by heating gypsum rock to remove the water content and then grinding it into a fine powder.

When mixed with water, Plaster of Paris forms a paste that can be molded into any shape before it hardens. This makes it an ideal material for creating sculptures or other decorative objects.

Differences Between Plaster and Plaster of Paris

While both materials are made from gypsum rock, there are some key differences between them:

  • Uses: Plaster is primarily used as a building material for walls and ceilings while Plaster of Paris is typically used for art projects.
  • Hardening Time: Plaster takes longer to harden than Plaster of Paris, which can harden within minutes of being mixed with water.
  • Durability: Plaster is more durable and stronger than Plaster of Paris, making it a better choice for building projects.
  • Mixing: Plaster requires more water to be mixed properly than Plaster of Paris, which requires less water.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both plaster and plaster of Paris are made from gypsum rock, they have different properties and uses. Plaster is primarily used as a building material for walls and ceilings due to its strength and durability.

Meanwhile, Plaster of Paris is commonly used for art projects due to its quick hardening time and moldable properties. Understanding the differences between these two materials will help you choose the right one for your project.