Which mineral is a common additive used in drywall materials?

Which mineral is a common additive used in drywall materials?

• A. Limestone
• B. Mica
• C. Gypsum
• D. Sand

Answer: (C)

Gypsum is the mineral commonly used in drywall because it forms the board’s core. It’s a hydrous calcium sulfate that’s ground into a powder, mixed with water, and pressed between sheets of paper to make drywall. As it cures, the gypsum sets into a strong, lightweight, and fire-resistant material, which is why it’s the standard choice. Limestone, mica, and sand appear in other construction materials, but they don’t provide the same combination of properties for drywall.

Gypsum is the mineral commonly used in drywall because it forms the board’s core. It’s a hydrous calcium sulfate that’s ground into a powder, mixed with water, and pressed between sheets of paper to make drywall. As it cures, the gypsum sets into a strong, lightweight, and fire-resistant material, which is why it’s the standard choice. Limestone, mica, and sand appear in other construction materials, but they don’t provide the same combination of properties for drywall.