Question

What is Plaster of Paris used for?

Answer 1

Plaster of Paris is a quick-setting gypsum plaster consisting of a calcium sulphate hemihydrate (white powder). Hence Plaster of Paris is a white coloured powder. The plaster gets its name because its main ingredient gypsum is found abundantly in Paris. The white powder will form a paste when it is mixed with water and it will harden into solid structures when dried.

Complete answer:
Plaster of Paris is a building material that is used as a protective coating on walls and ceilings. It is also used as a moulding and casting agent for decorative elements to give aesthetic finishing touches to the buildings. It is also used in buildings to avoid fire hazards and used as a coating on wood and metal structures to avoid any fire accidents as Plaster of Paris is fire resistant. It is used to make historical monuments and structures.
In the medical department, plaster is used in orthopaedics to put casts around fractured bones. It is also used in dentistry to make moulds of the teeth to be replaced. Plaster is used to prepare for radiotherapy during production of individualized immobilization shells for patients.

Note:
Plaster of Paris is the most recognized name for casting plaster, but the two terms are used interchangeably. It is more expensive than cement or cement lime plaster. It cannot be used in moist situations. Hydrocal is stronger than Plaster of Paris. Gypsum plaster is not suitable for exterior finish as it is slightly soluble in water.