GEOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Gypsum is called the retarding agent of cement which is mainly used for regulating the setting time of cement and is an indispensable component. Without gypsum, cement clinker can condense immediately by mixing with water and release heat.

Detailed explanation-2: -Gypsum is a soft sulfate mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate. It is mined around the globe, with many uses including as a fertilizer, construction material, in architectural and sculpture applications as well as pharmaceutical and food additive uses.

Detailed explanation-3: -Gypsum is often added to Portland cement to prevent early hardening or “flash setting”, allowing a longer working time. Gypsum slows down the setting of cement so that cement is adequately hardened.

Detailed explanation-4: -Unlike cement plaster, gypsum plaster does not require punning or any special process to achieve smoothness on the surface. Thus, it saves costs and time. Cement plaster has to be prepared manually but gypsum plaster is available in ready form. Hence, preparing it is much easier and convenient.