THE JOURNEY OF GYPSUM: FROM AGRICULTURAL FERTILIZER TO HIGH-PERFORMANCE CEILINGS AND WALLS

Did you know that gypsum was originally used as a fertilizer before becoming one of the favorite materials for modern interior ceilings and walls?

Initially, gypsum was known for its benefits in agriculture. The calcium and sulfur content in gypsum is very beneficial for plants. Some of its functions in agriculture include:

• Improving the structure of clay soil to make it looser
• Adding nutrients like calcium and sulfur
• Reducing the salinity of overly salty soil
• Increasing water and air absorption in the soil

The use of gypsum as a fertilizer and soil conditioner is still common today, especially on large-scale farms. Over time, scientists and material experts discovered that gypsum has characteristics that are very suitable for use in building construction. It is easy to shape, fire-resistant, lightweight, and cost-efficient to produce.

Gypsum Products in Construction

• Gypsum Board / Drywall: Used for partition walls and ceilings in homes or buildings.
• Gypsum Plaster: Used for wall finishing and architectural ornaments.
• Gypsum Blocks: A lightweight and easy-to-install alternative for non-structural walls.
• Modular Gypsum Ceilings: Used in commercial buildings such as offices, malls, and hospitals.

Why Is Gypsum a Top Choice in Construction?

Gypsum has become increasingly popular due to its many advantages over other materials, such as:

• Lightweight and Easy to Install: Speeds up the construction process, especially for partitions and ceilings.
• Fire-Resistant: Gypsum naturally contains water, which helps inhibit the spread of fire during a fire.
• Smooth Surface: Perfect for modern and minimalist interior finishes.
• Soundproofing: Has the ability to dampen sound, making it suitable for offices and private rooms.
• Environmentally Friendly: Gypsum can be recycled and does not contain harmful chemicals.

Tips for Choosing Quality Gypsum Products

Before buying, make sure to choose a high-quality gypsum product by paying attention to:

• The thickness of the board meets the standard (usually 9 mm, 12 mm)
• It should not break or crack easily
• It is moisture-resistant if used in semi-wet areas (use a water-resistant type of gypsum)
• It is SNI or internationally certified

With the trend of sustainable and energy-efficient buildings, gypsum is one of the materials predicted to continue to grow and be widely used in the future. The latest technology has even developed water-resistant and anti-fungal gypsum boards, which are very suitable for tropical regions like Indonesia.

The journey of gypsum from agricultural fields to adorning the ceilings of our homes is a testament to how natural materials can innovate and transform to meet the needs of the times. From being used as a fertilizer to enrich the soil, gypsum has now evolved into an essential element in the world of modern architecture and construction. Lightweight, fire-resistant, flexible, and aesthetic, gypsum is no longer known only to farmers but has become a go-to material for architects, contractors, and homeowners who want strong and high-quality buildings.