Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate (Beta Gypsum)
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Beta Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate, or Type III or high-strength Gypsum, is a specific form of calcium sulfate hemihydrate commonly used in various dry-mix and pre-packaged bagged products. Beta Gypsum has a smaller crystal structure and higher reactivity, making it more effective in enhancing concrete’s setting, strength, and durability. It is especially useful in products that require high-strength and fast-setting characteristics.
Beta Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate is commonly used in dry-mix concrete to improve its setting, accelerating, hardening, and workability, reduce shrinkage and curing properties, and increase the strength and durability of the finished product.
Here are some examples of when and why beta calcium sulfate hemihydrate is commonly used:
- Concrete Mixes: Beta Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate is sometimes added to concrete mixes to improve workability and reduce the amount of water needed. This can help increase the concrete’s strength and minimize the risk of cracking.
- Road Repair Patch: Beta Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate can be used as a binder in road repair patch mixes to improve strength and durability.
- Self-Leveling Underlayment (SLU): Beta Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate is commonly used in SLU underlayment to improve flow and leveling characteristics. It can also help to reduce shrinkage and to crack.
- Self-Leveling Compounds: Beta Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate can be used as a binder in self-leveling compounds to improve strength, durability, and flow characteristics.
- Tile Adhesives: Beta Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate is sometimes added to tile adhesives to improve workability, reduce shrinkage, and increase the bond strength between the adhesive and the tile.
- Industrial Grouts: Beta Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate is often used as a binder in industrial grouts to improve strength, durability, and flow characteristics.
- Anchors: Beta Calcium Sulfate Hemihydrate can be used as a filler material in anchor systems to improve strength and stability.