Which factor is likely to decrease the strength of gypsum when mixing?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about factors that can affect the strength of gypsum when it is mixed. It requires an understanding of how different variables during the mixing process can influence the final properties of gypsum.
Answer
Increased water-powder ratio.
The factor likely to decrease the strength of gypsum when mixing is an increased water-powder ratio.
Answer for screen readers
The factor likely to decrease the strength of gypsum when mixing is an increased water-powder ratio.
More Information
The water-powder ratio is crucial for the final strength of gypsum products. Using more water reduces the number of crystal nuclei per unit volume, affecting the material's integrity.
Tips
A common mistake is not measuring the water or powder correctly, leading to the wrong ratio and weakened material.
Sources
- Influence of water-powder ratio on gypsum strength - biomedres.us
- Plaster Mixing Procedures - USG - usg.com