Plaster of Paris

Chemistry Lab Project

Cody Hunter

Definition of Plaster of Paris

Can also be referred to as Gypsum Plaster Very similar to cement, plaster of paris is

easy to mold when wet and forms a strong structure to the molded shape when dry

Used to sculpt

Relation To Embalming

In the Embalming field, plaster of paris can be used to reconstruct the faces or body parts of the deceased to create a natural like appearance.

Interesting Facts

Plaster of Paris is formed by heating Gypsum to 300 degrees Fahrenheit

Plaster of Paris has many different uses such as: molding orthopedic casts and creating movie and tv sets.

Plaster of Paris got its name from a large gypsum deposit that is located in Paris.

Importance of Plaster of Paris

2CaSO4·H2O + Heat → 2CaSO4·½H2O + 3H2O

Plaster of Paris relates to chemistry class because it is a chemical reaction. To make plaster of paris you must heat gypsum. The steam from the heat plus the plater of paris combine to make gypsum. When

water is added to the plaster of paris it rehydrates and hardens.

Questions about Plaster of Paris

After researching plaster of paris and using it several times in my career field there is little left to be understood. However, I have read on several websites and blogs that state when directly applied to the skin can cause

burns and irritation but found very little evidence supporting. I would like to know if it does burn your skin

and why?

Plaster of Paris

Works Cited

http://www.iseek.org/careers/careerDetail?id=2&oc=100069

http://www.chemicalformula.org/plaster-of-paris

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plaster#Gypsum_plaster_.28plaster_of_Paris.29