Gypsum
Gypsum is a naturally occurring mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O). It is widely used in agriculture, construction, and industry for its unique properties.
In agriculture, gypsum is primarily used as a soil amendment to improve soil structure and fertility. It is especially beneficial for soils with high clay content, as it helps to break up clay particles, improve drainage, and reduce soil compaction. Gypsum also helps to improve water infiltration and retention, which can lead to better plant growth and higher yields.
In addition to its soil conditioning properties, gypsum is also used as a source of calcium and sulfur, two essential nutrients for plant growth. It can help correct nutrient deficiencies in soil and improve overall plant health.
Gypsum is also used in construction as a binder in plaster and drywall. It is added to these materials to improve their strength, durability, and fire resistance. In industry, gypsum is used in a variety of applications, including cement production, making molds for pottery and ceramics, and as a filler in paper and textiles.