Facts About Gypsum or Plaster of Paris (Calcium Sulfate)

Chemical Facts No. 9

Facts About Gypsum or Plaster of Paris (Calcium Sulfate)

Used since ancient times, plaster of paris is so called because gypsum was early used near Paris to make plaster and cement. Plaster of paris is also used to precast and hold parts of ornamental plasterwork placed on ceilings and cornices and is used in Medicine. But nowadays, it has been used as a coagulant or precipitating agent in making "Taho" and "Tofu".

-DANGERS-
When mixed with water plaster hardens and becomes hot (temp. 150 degrees). Do not submerge any body parts into the plaster as severe burns may result. When plaster is being mixed, dust may cause irritation to eyes, nose, throat or upper respiratory system. If eye contact occurs, flush particles from eye with water. Do not take internally. Call a physician immediate if ingested. Children should not use this product except under adult supervision. Warning: This product contains crystalline silica, known to the state of California to cause cancer.

Many things in this warning merit further review. In case you missed them, I’ll summarize and enumerate the salient problems of this vile substance for you:

1. It gets hot. BURNING hot. (temperature 150 degrees celius)
2. The dust will BURN your eyes and scorch your respiratory system
3. The plaster is likely POISONOUS. Good thing kids NEVER eat stuff they play with…
4. Even with the name “Kids Kreations,” this toxin is NOT child friendly.
5. PLASTER OF PARIS CAUSES CANCER, (at least in California)
And yet, there it was, sitting on the store shelf, ready to attack the next unsuspecting artist with burns and irritation and cancer. Sometimes the most innocuous substances are the most virulent.

"Know the labels of what you eat and drink. Have a healthy life."...:>)