Advantages of Gypsum Plaster in the Structure
Ease of Application (Workability): Gypsum plaster is very easy to apply and level on the surface. It can be directly applied over the brick wall or ceiling without any separate finish, which makes it very workable and easy to apply.
No Shrinkage Cracks: The heat produced in the gypsum-water reaction is less as compared to the reaction of cement with water, as such the shrinkage cracks in the gypsum plaster are fewer as compared to traditional cement plaster.
Quick setting time: Gypsum plaster sets within 25-30 minutes which is very quick compared to other plasters. Before painting the surface, it must be dried. In the case of gypsum plaster, painting can begin 72 hours after application.
No curing time required: The gypsum plaster does not require any curing like traditional cement plaster, which saves water and time during the construction work.
High Productivity: It significantly reduces application and setting time when compared to conventional cement plaster.
High Performance : Gypsum plaster is very durable and lightweight, which reduces the dead load on the structure and leaves excellent high strength after drying. Gypsum plaster exhibits impact-resistant behavior.
Smooth Finish : Due to the ease of application and leveling of gypsum plaster, the walls come out perfectly lined, leveled and smooth. Perfect right angles can be achieved at corners.
Reduced Supervision: For traditional cement plasters, where cement and sand have to be properly proportioned careful quality checking is needed. So skillful supervision is required. While the application of gypsum plaster does not require the same amount of quality checks thus supervision efforts are reduced.
Readily available raw materials: Gypsum is a readily available raw material, whereas natural sand (which is one of the required raw materials) for traditional cement plaster may be unavailable or difficult to obtain on site.
Fire – Resistant: Gypsum plaster is highly fire-resistant, making it safe.
Low thermal conductivity: Gypsum has low thermal conductivity. This saves energy costs for heating and cooling rooms in a building in winter and summer respectively. Gypsum thus has good insulation properties.
Decorative Use: Gypsum plaster can be easily molded into different shapes, so it is very easy to use for decorative purposes as well.
