Calcium sulfate hemihydrate is called “Plaster of Paris” because it was historically obtained from gypsum deposits near Paris, France. It was widely used in the city during the 18th century for making plaster molds and sculptures.
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Calcium sulfate hemihydrate is commonly known as “Plaster of Paris” due to its historical association with the gypsum deposits found near Paris, France. The name originated in the 17th century when large quantities of this substance were mined from Montmartre, a region in Paris. The hemihydrate form of calcium sulfate, obtained by partially dehydrating gypsum, has excellent moldability and sets into a hard, durable material when mixed with water. Its versatility in casting and sculpting applications, as well as its early association with the Parisian gypsum mines, led to the popularization of the name “Plaster of Paris” for calcium sulfate hemihydrate.