Why should plaster of Paris be stored in a dry place?
State three applications of plaster of Paris in daily life
Plaster of Paris should be stored in a dry place because it is a hygroscopic material, meaning it has the ability to absorb moisture from the air. If stored in a humid environment, it can become damp, which affects its quality and performance.
Three applications of plaster of Paris in daily life are:
1. Construction and Home Renovation: Plaster of Paris is commonly used in the construction industry for creating decorative elements such as cornices, moldings, and ceiling medallions. It is also used for patching holes and cracks in walls or for creating smooth surfaces before painting.
2. Art and Crafts: Plaster of Paris is frequently used in various art and craft projects. It can be molded into different shapes and forms, allowing artists to create sculptures, figurines, and masks. Additionally, it is often used for making handprints or footprints as keepsakes.
3. Medical Field: Plaster of Paris is used in orthopedics for making casts to immobilize and support fractured bones during the healing process. It is mixed with water and then wrapped around the affected area, where it hardens quickly to provide stability and protection. The casts made from plaster of Paris are lightweight, porous, and can be easily shaped to fit the patient's body.
Plaster of Paris should be stored in a dry place primarily because it is highly susceptible to moisture absorption. Here's why:
1. Moisture reaction: Plaster of Paris is made by heating gypsum, a mineral, to remove its water content. However, when exposed to moisture, it can begin to reabsorb water, resulting in the formation of gypsum again. This process is known as rehydration, and it causes the plaster to lose its setting properties and harden irreversibly.
2. Consistency preservation: Moisture can affect the composition and consistency of plaster of Paris. If exposed to moisture, it can clump together, making it difficult to mix or apply. Keeping it in a dry place helps maintain its fine powder form, allowing for easier handling and usage.
3. Shelf-life extension: Plaster of Paris can have a long shelf life if stored properly. By keeping it in a dry place away from moisture, you can prevent its premature deterioration or the loss of its crucial properties. This ensures that it remains usable for an extended period.
Now, regarding the applications of plaster of Paris in daily life, here are three common uses:
1. Home repairs: Plaster of Paris is commonly used for repairing cracks, holes, or dents in walls, ceilings, and other surfaces. It can be mixed with water to create a paste-like substance that can be applied to fill in and level the damaged area. Once it dries and hardens, it can be sanded and painted over, restoring the surface's original appearance.
2. Art and crafts: Plaster of Paris is widely utilized in art and craft projects. It can be used to create molds and casts of various objects, such as sculptures, figurines, and decorative items. Its ability to set quickly and accurately capture details makes it a popular choice for artists and hobbyists.
3. Medical applications: Plaster of Paris is also used in medical applications, particularly for making casts for broken bones. When mixed with water, it forms a malleable material that can be molded around an injured limb to provide support and immobilization during the healing process. Once it hardens, it provides stability and protection to the fractured area.