Gypsum plays a crucial role in the manufacture of cement. Specifically, its primary function is to regulate the setting time of the cement. When cement is mixed with water, it undergoes a chemical reaction known as hydration, which causes it to set and harden. Without gypsum, this reaction would occur too rapidly for practical use, making the cement set almost immediately after mixing with water, which would be problematic during construction.
Gypsum is added to the cement in the final grinding process to control this setting time and ensure that it remains workable long enough to be used for construction purposes. Typically, around 3-5% of gypsum is added to the clinker before final grinding in the cement mill.
By controlling the setting time, gypsum ensures that the cement conforms to the technical specifications required in construction, improving its workability and performance.
