Gypsum of fine-grained structure is called alabaster. This material is used in construction, mainly as a finishing material. It was known to the ancient Egyptians, who decorated the tombs of the pharaohs for them. The word "gypsum" comes from the Greek "gypsos", which means "boiling stone". The fact is that when this material is lowered into water, it begins to foam and release heat.
Gypsum alabaster is a very soft mineral. In this regard, it is second only to talc. Vases, figurines, watch boxes and much more are made from it. These products are distinguished by grace and snow-white attractive color. However, most often this material is used for finishing walls and ceilings, as well as for making decorative elements such as stucco.
Alabaster, the use of which is advisable both in low-budget and expensive projects, is distinguished by absolute environmental cleanliness. After all, it is made from natural materials. Natural gypsum is ground into a fine powder. However, it can be pinkish, yellowish or reddish. However, aftersecondary processing, it becomes a dazzling white color, without any shades whatsoever.
Building alabaster is diluted with water before use. After being applied to the walls or forming decorative elements, it hardens, retaining the shape given to it. This process does not last long: from several minutes to an hour. It depends on what kind of alabaster was used. Normal hardening, slow hardening and fast hardening types of this material are currently available.
Alabaster, the use of which involves, as mentioned above, mixing with water, it is best to dilute in a cut ball. The fact is that this material practically does not stick to rubber. If the ball is not at hand, you can also use a bucket, but first you need to lay it with polyethylene. At the same time, it must be taken into account that if the alabaster gets on the walls or edges of the container, it will have to be thrown away after use.
A kilogram of dry alabaster take about half a liter of water. The consistency of the finished mixture should resemble thick sour cream. Alabaster, the use of which is associated with the manufacture of various kinds of handicrafts, is often polished. A variety of methods are used for this. Products made from this material are treated with horsetail, scraped with a scraper, or the thin file method is used. For very high-quality polishing, finely ground mother-of-pearl is taken.
Alabaster, the application of which is based on dissolution with water, requires enoughcareful handling. Polished products are stored in a dry place. In any case, they must not be allowed to come into contact with water. Otherwise, the polish will fade. Water is used to process decorative elements when a design needs to be applied.
The main advantages of this material, in addition to environmental friendliness, can be considered excellent resistance to ignition, the ability to withstand high temperatures and extraordinary durability. In addition, the use of alabaster contributes to the creation of an excellent microclimate in the apartment. The fact is that at high humidity this material is able to absorb water. And when this indicator decreases, give it back into the air.
