The following article is attributed to Kaushal Mehta, Managing Director, Walplast
The construction industry has boomed over the years, owing to technological advancements, and changing consumer needs. The global construction market size reached a value of approximately USD 13.57 trillion in 2023. The market is further anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% between 2024 and 2032 to attain a value of around USD 23.92 trillion by 2032 as per Expert Market Research. The construction Industry in India too is expected to reach $1.4 Tn by 2025 as per the reports by Invest India. In this evolution, materials used in construction have undergone significant changes to meet the demands of modern architecture and sustainability.
Among these materials, gypsum-based products have emerged as versatile and eco-friendly solutions, playing a crucial role in shaping contemporary construction practices. The global gypsum-based products market is set for significant growth, with projections indicating a market value of USD 560 million by 2030. In India alone, the market is anticipated to reach US$ 30 million by the same year, according to Transparency Market Research. Gypsum, a versatile mineral binder, remains a cornerstone in modern construction practices owing to its unique properties and environmental benefits.
Gypsum-based products are renowned for their eco-friendly attributes, primarily owing to their composition. The principal component, calcium sulfate, exists in various forms including dihydrate, hemihydrate, and anhydrate. Notably, gypsum boasts a neutral pH and is typically white, offering desirable decorative properties. Unlike lime and cement-based materials, gypsum requires significantly lower calcination temperatures, leading to reduced fuel consumption and minor CO2 emissions during manufacturing. Moreover, gypsum products exhibit rapid setting and hardening, eliminating the need for accelerated curing processes. They are also lightweight, easily moldable, and offer excellent fire and sound resistance. However, their susceptibility to water necessitates the use of additives and reinforcements to enhance durability.
The evolution of gypsum products in modern construction is reinforced by several key factors:
Fire Resistance: Gypsum’s inherent fire-resistant properties, attributed to the presence of water molecules within its crystal structure, make it an indispensable material for walls and ceilings. Its ability to withstand high temperatures and inhibit flame spread enhances building safety.
Sound Insulation: The porous structure of gypsum enables effective absorption of sound waves, thereby reducing noise levels within buildings. As such, gypsum finds extensive use in walls and ceilings to create quieter and more comfortable living and working environments.
Durability: Gypsum exhibits remarkable durability, resisting mold, mildew, and pests. Its longevity translates to reduced maintenance costs, making it an economically viable choice for construction projects.
Versatility: Gypsum’s versatility is evident in its ability to be molded into various shapes and sizes, facilitating the creation of custom designs. Additionally, it can be painted or textured to achieve different finishes, catering to diverse architectural preferences.
Sustainability: As a natural and recyclable material, gypsum aligns with sustainable construction practices. Its non-toxic nature ensures safety for occupants, further enhancing its appeal as an eco-friendly building material.
Products Made from Gypsum
Gypsum finds widespread application in various construction products, with drywall (also known as gypsum board or plasterboard), and plaster being among the most commonly used. According to TechSci Research the India Gypsum board market was valued at USD 359.95 million in 2023 and is anticipated to project a robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 9.18% through 2029. Similarly, the India Gypsum plaster market was valued at USD 462.86 million in 2022 and is anticipated to project a robust growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 6.13% by 2029.
Drywall serves as a versatile building material for creating interior walls and ceilings. Its ease of installation, cost-effectiveness, and moisture-resistant properties make it a preferred choice in both residential and commercial settings. Similarly, gypsum plaster, applied in layers to walls and ceilings, offers a smooth and durable finish, enhancing aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
Furthermore, gypsum plays a crucial role in cement production, where it helps regulate setting time and improve workability. This integration underscores gypsum’s versatility and importance across different construction sectors, contributing to the creation of safer, more efficient, and environmentally conscious built environments.
The evolution of gypsum products has been instrumental in meeting the demands of modern construction. As the construction industry progresses towards eco-friendly practices, gypsum’s significance is set to expand, promising safer, more resilient, and visually appealing structures for future generations.
Source:
Expert Market Research: https://www.expertmarketresearch.com/reports/construction-market
Transparency Market Research: https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/gypsum-based-products-market.html
TechSci Research https://www.techsciresearch.com/report/india-gypsum-board-market/7966.html
