Plaster

History and Types of Plaster: Plaster has a rich history dating back 7,000 years, with early uses in the Middle East, Egypt, and Europe. Types of plaster include clay plaster, gypsum plaster (Plaster of Paris), lime plaster, and cement plaster. Clay plaster, made of clay, sand, water, and plant fibers, has been used globally since ancient times for interiors and decorative purposes. Manufacturing and Applications: Plaster is manufactured as dry powder forms like gypsum, lime, and cement, which are mixed with water before application. Plaster is used for wall and ceiling coatings, decorative elements, medical casts, dental models, and fresco painting. Lime plaster, for example, is used for frescoes and wall surfaces, setting through a chemical reaction with carbon dioxide. Specific Plaster Types and Uses: Gypsum plaster (Plaster of Paris) is used for making casts, statues, and toys due to its hardening properties with water. Lime plaster is common for lath and plaster construction and frescoes, providing smooth surfaces for painting. Cement plaster is applied to masonry for smooth surfaces and fireproofing, with heavy versions for exterior applications. Artistic, Medical, and Fire Protection Applications: Plaster is widely used in art for sculptures, reliefs, molds, and architectural details. In medicine, plaster supports broken bones, creates dental models, and aids in radiotherapy immobilization. Plaster is crucial for fire protection, releasing water vapor to slow fire spread and providing insulation to structural elements. Safety, 3D Printing, and Miscellaneous Uses: Safety concerns include burns from exothermic setting and hazards from silica or asbestos inhaled during work. 3D printing utilizes gypsum plaster with water for intricate designs and rapid prototyping in various industries. Miscellaneous uses include joint compounds, exterior finishes like stucco, Tadelakt waterproof plaster, and historical plaster work styles like Yeseria.