Plaster Research Articles

Differentiated Slip Casting: Producing Variable Thickness Ceramic Tiles with Functionally Graded Plaster Moulds

This paper introduces a method that enhances the traditional slip casting technique’s potential to fabricate ceramic objects with variable thickness. The variability depends on the different filtration rates offered by plaster moulds of varying densities. Two sets of experiments are presented. They focused on identifying (1) the maximum workable density range of moulds made from plaster of Paris and (2) the range of thickness in the resulting ceramic casts. This was accomplished by creating four square flat moulds with different gypsum/water (G:W) ratios and their corresponding casts. Based on these findings, the second set of experiments focused on assembling graded plaster moulds with variable densities (G:W 1:3 to 2:1), resulting in ceramic tiles exhibiting a thickness gradient of 2 mm. These results suggest the possibility of producing double-curved ceramic objects (e.g., custom ceramic tiles or sanitaryware) with graded thickness, tailored to their desired structural and functional performance.

Evaluation of an Innovative Casting Method in the Recovery of Footwear Impressions in Soil

Three-dimensional (3D) shoeprints taken from crime scenes can more accurately depict impressions than photographs, providing a crucial link between the crime scene and the suspect. This paper introduces rigid polyurethane foam as an alternative material for recovering and preserving 3D footwear impressions in soil. The rigid polyurethane is manufactured through gas expansion, solidifying in a foamed state that consists of a dense integral surface and a durable closed-cell structure beneath the skin layer. It is easily molded, lightweight, dimensionally accurate, and exhibits minimal changes in strength when the foam casts are created and stored indoors. In comparison to casts made with plaster of Paris, this method produces impressions on casts that exhibit more identifiable characteristics, serving as a complementary technique for the forensic science community in reproducing 3D footwear impressions found in soil.

Effect of Starch-Based Adhesives in the Production of Plaster Casts from Industrial Waste

In this work, the waste gypsum from industry is repurposed to add value in the medical field by transforming it into Plaster cast. The waste gypsum or calcium sulfate dihydrate is heated to a temperature of 120 °C for three hours to obtain calcium sulfate hemihydrate or Plaster of Paris. Subsequently, it is mixed with water in a 1:1 ratio before embedded on gauze. To enhance the strength of the plaster cast, different types of starch-based adhesives are mixed with plaster solution to investigate their impact on shaping and the strength of the plaster. Three types of starch, including potato starch, tapioca starch, and cornstarch, are utilized. After testing the strength of plaster cast mixed with adhesive starch, it is found that with 5% potato starch, the plaster cast exhibits the highest strength among all variants. In addition, its result from SEM indicated that the potato starch was distributed and packed tightly onto gauze.

Synthesis and characterization of nano-Plaster of Paris from Babylonia japonica, Oliva sayana, and Conasprella bermudensis

In this study, Plaster of Paris (POP, CaSO4.0.5H2O) was successfully synthesized from the shells of marine mollusks, specifically Conasprella bermudensis, Babylonia japonica, and Oliva sayana, highlighting the potential of utilizing marine resources for material production. The synthesis process was accelerated through a chemical reaction between the mollusk shells and sulfuric acid, which provided calcium and sulfate ions, respectively. Various model equations were employed to assess the crystallite size, which was less than 200 nm; notably, all models except the Halder-Wagner technique yielded significant estimations for the synthesized products. The calculated energy density ranged from 1.32×10² to 2.38×10³ J/m³, with stress values between 5.02×10⁵ and 2×10⁶ and strain values from 5×10⁻⁴ to 1.7×10⁻³. The preferred growth calculation indicated that the (200), (400), and (020) planes are the most thermodynamically stable for the synthesized POP. Additionally, FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of sulfate and hydroxyl functional groups in the products. This research advances the understanding of nano-Plaster of Paris (POP) derived from marine sources, promotes sustainable practices in material synthesis, and explores new applications in construction and biomedical fields.

Radiographic Management of Impacted Fracture of the Left Distal Metatarsal Bone in a 7-Month-Old Ram (Case Report)

Fracture is the act of breaking or dissolution in the continuity of a bone, with or without displacement of bone fragments. A 7-month-old Balami-Ouda cross Ram was presented at the Large Animal Clinic of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto with a complaint of lameness on the left hind limb which was noticed 3 days prior to presentation. Radiography of the limb, revealed a swollen left metatarsophalangeal joint with an impacted fracture at the distal end of the metatarsus and a valgus deviation of the phalanges. History further disclosed that the ram might be a victim of stampede by some cows in the farm, as it was managed semi-intensively with other animals (8 ewes, 6 rams and 5 cattle). The fracture was managed by closed reduction and external fixation using Plaster of Paris (POP) and a splint to redirect the valgus deviated limb back to its original position. This POP was removed on the 6th week after complete healing was ascertained on a radiograph and complete weight bearing was achieved. The ram was fully discharged at week 7. The fracture healed successfully without any form of complication.

Short arm splints for wrist stabilization: A mechanical material test and cadaveric radiography study.

Documentation of the wrist stabilizing effect and mechanical properties of common splinting materials is warranted to support evidence-based condition-specific recommendations for wrist immobilization. The objectives of this study were to assess the wrist stabilizing properties of volar and dorsal short-arm splints made of four different materials and evaluate the mechanical properties of the splinting materials. Dorsal and volar short arm splints made of plaster of Paris (PoP) (eight layers), Woodcast (2 mm, rigid vented), X-lite (classic, two layers) or a 3D-printed material (polypropylene) were sequentially mounted on 10 cadaveric arm specimens and fixed in a radiolucent fixture. This enabled the evaluation of maximum wrist flexion and extension relative under an orthogonal load of 42 N via radiographic images. In addition, a three-point bending test was performed on ten sheet duplicates of each of the four splinting materials. When applied as a volar splint, PoP had the highest capability to resist wrist flexion and extension. However, when applied as a dorsal splint, Woodcast exhibited a lower wrist flexion and a similar wrist extension. The 3D-printed splints-both volar and dorsal-showed the highest mean wrist flexion and extension. The mechanical properties of the Woodcast, X-lite and 3D-printed splinting materials were very similar. PoP exhibited distinct properties with a stiffness of 146 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 120-173) N/mm and a deflection at F max of 0.6 (95% CI: 0.5-0.7) mm compared to ≤7.7 (95% CI: 7.4-7.9) N/mm and ≥20 (95% CI: 18-22) mm for the other materials. PoP displayed better wrist stabilizing properties and material stiffness than Woodcast, X-lite and 3D-printed polypropylene. When considering wrist stabilizing properties, PoP may still prove to be the preferred choice for wrist immobilization. Not applicable.

Identification of decedents by restoring mummified fingerprints: Forensic dermatology in the investigation of mummy dermatoglyphics

Fingerprints are created by elevations and depressions on the fingertip pads. Each person has their own unique fingerprints, which can be used in the identification of that individual when alive, during the immediate postmortem period, or even after the digits have become mummified. Mummification can occur naturally; it can be partial (such as localized to only the hands and feet), extensive, or complete. Obtaining fingerprints after the skin has become mummified can be attempted while the digits remain attached to the hand, but the digits may need to be removed from the hand, and the finger pads may also need to be separated from the underlying bone to secure an adequate fingerprint. The mummified tissue often needs to be rehydrated; numerous solutions have been used that increase the turgor of the digits, provide softening and pliability of the tissue, and enhance the details of the finger pad ridges. An aqueous solution of sodium carbonate (either combined with acetic acid or combined with 95% ethanol and distilled water) was found to be most effective for rehydration. Thereafter, various techniques can be attempted to obtain the fingerprint. These include the traditional method of inking and rolling of the finger or photographing the finger. Powders (such as aluminum powder, black fingerprint powder, white cornstarch-based powder, or fluorescent powder) can be used to enhance the ridge features; adhesive tape can be pressed against the powdered digit and the print pattern preserved by applying the adhesive tape to a clear transparency sheet. Molds (using modeling clay or silicone rubber) and casts (using plaster of paris, dental casting materials, or putty) of the digits can be created; either the molds or the casts or both can be photographed with or without prior application of fingerprint powder. Transillumination, using a fiber optic light source to illuminate the epidermis and underlying remaining dermis of a scraped and defleshed finger pad, can be used to demonstrate the finger ridge pattern when photographing the tip of the digit. Forensic dermatology can play an integral role in obtaining fingerprints from mummified digits, which can be successfully used for the identification of a decedent.

Using the methyl cellulose poultice method to remove plaster and burlap - A case study on Triceratops bone

The dinosaur collection at the Natural History Museum, London (NHM) includes a Triceratops skull (NHMUK PV R 3886), purchased from Charles Sternberg in 1909. While most of the skull is on public display in the Dinosaurs gallery, two large sections of the frill (the squamosal bones) had been replicated for the display and the originals left in storage. With much of the fossil bone obscured by plaster of Paris, the original frill sections were deemed of limited use to science in their current form. A work request was received to strip away as much artificial material as possible to determine the extent of the original fossil material. An air scribe fitted with a chisel stylus proved initially effective, but soon revealed an additional obstacle – layers of hessian underneath. The methyl cellulose poultice method was used to swell the hessian, aiding softening of the plaster, and allowing layers to be torn off in strips. The fine layer of plaster remaining on the bone was removed, where possible, with a Split-V ultrasonic tool. This sequence of treatments can be utilised at minimal risk to specimens in similar situations when a hessian and plaster jacket has been applied but a separator layer has been omitted.

Impact of Idol Immersion on Mumbai's Aquatic Ecosystems: Comparative Analysis of Juhu Beach, Marve Beach, and Dingeshwar Lake, India

In Maharashtra, Ganesh Chaturthi is one of the major festivals celebrated, and many idols are immersed throughout the festival. Traditionally, idols were made of biodegradable materials like clay, but in recent times, various other harmful materials like POP (Plaster of Paris), oils and paints are used which tend to bioaccumulate in organisms. The present study analysed various physicochemical parameters of water which included temperature, turbidity, total solids (TS), total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids (TSS), conductivity, density, salinity, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, hardness, nitrates, and phosphates, conducted before and after idol immersion at three sites in Mumbai: Juhu Beach, Marve Beach, and Dingeshwar Lake. The research observed changes in these parameters before and after the immersion of the idols which signified an increase in the level of pollution which may negatively affect the aquatic organisms’ health and lifestyle. The number of idols immersed in water bodies has increased over the years, and hence there is an urgent need to control water pollution. By adopting more sustainable measures for idol immersion, we can minimize the detrimental impacts on aquatic ecosystems.

Sustainable stabilization of waste foundry sands in alkali activated glass-based matrices

Since cements and concrete are highly energy-demanding, sustainable construction materials represent a crucial aspect in mitigating environmental pollution. The study proposes a promising solution for transforming waste into new and highly sustainable construction materials according to alkali activation process. The unemployed fractions of boro-alumino-silicate pharmaceutical glass (BASG) and waste foundry sands (WFS) were employed in the production of synthetic conglomerates. Glass powders were firstly suspended into ‘mild’ NaOH/KOH aqueous solutions (2.5–5 M) for 180 minutes at 500 rpm, at room temperature or at 40°C. Conglomerates were later produced by embedding of foundry sands in slurries of alkali activated glass, for BASG:WFS ratios of 1:1, 1:2 or 1:3. The mass of sand embedded is a function of the grain size distribution. A final drying phase, lasting 7 days at 40°C, promoted the consolidation of the newly-formed materials due to the formation of strong siloxane bonds. The obtained conglomerates were mechanically tested under compression. Interestingly, the composites exhibited a compressive strength-to-density ratio comparable with commercial insulating lightweight concrete and Plaster of Paris. Moreover, the leachates from conglomerates were subjected to optical emission spectroscopy in inductively coupled plasma (ICP-OES) to verify the stabilization of hazardous elements. The methodology selected for the stabilization of pollutants is compliant with UNI EN 12457–2:2002. The results show that the release of critical pollutants (Ba, Cr, Cd, Co, Mo, Ni) was maintained below the European limits. The research highlights the possibility to manufacture conglomerates starting from waste raw materials. Furthermore, stabilizing activity towards hazardous elements is achieved by all composite materials.

Realization of Impression Evidence with Reverse Engineering and Additive Manufacturing

Significant advances in reverse engineering and additive manufacturing have the potential to provide a faster, accurate, and cost-effective process chain for preserving, analyzing, and presenting forensic impression evidence in both 3D digital and physical forms. The objective of the present research was to evaluate the capabilities and limitations of five 3D scanning technologies, including laser scanning (LS), structured-light (SL) scanning, smartphone (SP) photogrammetry, Microsoft Kinect v2 RGB-D camera, and iPhone’s LiDAR (iLiDAR) Sensor, for 3D reconstruction of 3D impression evidence. Furthermore, methodologies for 3D reconstruction of latent impression and visible 2D impression based on a single 2D photo were proposed. Additionally, the FDM additive manufacturing process was employed to build impression evidence models created by each procedure. The results showed that the SL scanning system generated the highest reconstruction accuracy. Consequently, the SL system was employed as a benchmark to assess the reconstruction quality of other systems. In comparison to the SL data, LS showed the smallest absolute geometrical deviations (0.37 mm), followed by SP photogrammetry (0.78 mm). In contrast, the iLiDAR exhibited the largest absolute deviations (2.481 mm), followed by Kinect v2 (2.382 mm). Additionally, 3D printed impression replicas demonstrated superior detail compared to Plaster of Paris (POP) casts. The feasibility of reconstructing 2D impressions into 3D models is progressively increasing. Finally, this article explores potential future research directions in this field.

Enhancing and hindering biodegradation: A comparative study on polyamide 6 reinforced with bio-fillers (peanut shell, olive pomace, and plaster)

In recent years, bio-reinforced composite materials have occupied an important class among the materials of mass use in our daily lives thanks to their potential advantages such as lightness, low cost, ease of implementation, and in particular biodegradation. The latter has been the objective of several studies focusing particularly on poorly biodegradable polymers, among these polymers we find polyamide 6 (PA6). It is a semi-crystalline polymer, distinguished by its good mechanical properties, excellent chemical and thermal stability, and low price compared to other polyamides. In this research, we investigated the impact of reinforcing PA6 with peanut shell powder (PSP), olive pomace powder (OPP), and plaster (PL) on its biodegradation process. Our objective was to determine whether the incorporation of these reinforcements accelerates, delays, or has no effect on PA6 biodegradation. To achieve this, we conducted degradation experiments using the bacterium Alcaligenes faecalis (AF), isolated from the public landfill of Meknes, Morocco. Our findings revealed intriguing insights into the biodegradation behavior of the PA6 composites. Specifically, the incorporation of PSP significantly enhanced PA6 biodegradation, resulting in a notable 38 % weight loss. Conversely, the inclusion of OPP led to a delay in biodegradation, with only a 19 % weight loss observed. Interestingly, the addition of plaster exhibited a biodegradation pattern similar to that of raw PA6. Furthermore, we utilized FTIR and SEM coupled with EDS elemental analysis to confirm the biodegradation of the composites. These techniques provided valuable insights into the structural, morphological, and elemental changes undergone by the composites during the biodegradation process. Overall, our study contributes novel insights into the biodegradation dynamics of PA6 composites reinforced with natural materials. By elucidating the effects of reinforcement on biodegradation, our research paves the way for the development of sustainable and eco-friendly composite materials.

Advancements in Dental Casting Materials & Their Forensic Significance

Abstract: This research explores various dental casting materials & their significance in forensic science. Traditional materials, such as- Dental stone, Plaster of Paris, & Dental wax have long been utilized in forensic investigations. However, advancements in materials science have led to the development of newer, more versatile options, such as- Epoxy resins, Polyurethane, & Alginate substitutes. Each material offers distinct advantages & limitations concerning ease of use, accuracy, & durability. Dental stone, a widely used & employed material, provides excellent detail reproduction & stability but lacks flexibility. Plaster of Paris, though economical, may not yield precise replicas due to its brittle nature. Dental wax, appreciated for its malleability & is susceptible to form deformation & degradation over time. In contrast, modern alternatives like- Epoxy resins & Polyurethane boast superior strength & dimensional stability, making them ideal for long-term storage of dental impressions. Epoxy resins, in particular, offer high fidelity reproduction of dental structures & resistance to moisture, temperature fluctuations. Polyurethane, known for its flexibility & durability, enables the creation of resilient dental models suitable for extensive forensic analysis. Furthermore, Alginate substitutes have gained popularity for their ease of use & compatibility with 3D Printing technology. These materials also offer quick setting times & adequate detail capture, facilitating rapid production of dental models for forensic examination. While, Traditional materials continue to serve a purpose, the adoption of advanced casting materials has revolutionized forensic odontology by enhancing- efficiency, precision & archival integrity

Development of lightweight sawdust-based composite panels for building purposes

This research dealt with fabrication of suitable lightweight composite panel samples from sawdust for building applications. Raw and alkali-treated sawdust particles were utilized at varying weight proportions (0 %, 25 %, 50 %, 75 %, and 100 %) to develop the samples with topbond as binder. From the results of heat transfer and strength properties tests, the raw sawdust improved thermal insulation efficiency while the treated sawdust enhanced the strength of the samples. For each loading level of sawdust, 100 % screwability and nailability were achieved. The findings suggest that, if used as ceiling panels in buildings, the samples would outperform conventional ceilings like plywood, asbestos, plaster of Paris, and KalsiCeil in mitigating global warming effects, reducing dead loads, and promoting sustainable and cost-effective housing development. This underscores the potential of these samples to address key priorities in construction and environmental sustainability.

ISOLATED CONGENITAL GENU RECURVATUM A CASE SERIES

Congenital Genu Recurvatum (CGR) is a rare anomaly which can be diagnosed prenatally via imaging or following birth by a physical examination. With an incidence of 1 in 100,000 live births, CGR is defined as a pathological degree of hyperextension of the knee joint accompanied by limited flexion. CGR may occur in isolation or in association with other birth defects such as talipes equinovarus and a congenital dislocation of the hip joint. In severe cases of CGR, contracture of the quadriceps tendon does not permit reduction. At the other end of the severity spectrum, where the dislocated knee yields to reduction through manual manipulation, conservative treatment with serial Plaster of Paris (POP) casting of the joint in the reduced position has demonstrated excellent outcome. Newborn babies born in our institution during the period 2019-2022 with isolated unilateral congenital dislocation of knee joint managed conservatively is followed up till 3 months. Based on our experience, we conclude that serial casting is has shown excellent functional outcomes in patients with grade 3 isolated congenital genu recurvatum managed by manipulation and serial casting

Intravenous catheter flanges as an external nasal stent: a novel technique.

External nasal splints are commonly used for immobilization following nasal fracture reduction or rhinoplasty procedures. The literature documents the use of various materials like thermoplastic materials, aluminum, Orthoplast, fiberglass, plaster of Paris, and polyvinyl siloxane. These materials are bulky, time-consuming, expensive, and cumbersome to use, and have been associated with complications including contact dermatitis and epidermolysis. Furthermore, they cannot be retained if the situation warrants prolonged stabilization and immobilization. We introduce a new technique using readily available scalp vein catheter flanges as an external nasal stent. The technique is easy to master, inexpensive, and limits edema and ecchymosis, while stabilizing the reconstructed nasal skeleton in position during the healing period.

Study of Hamate Fractures in a Single Tertiary Hands Unit: A Retrospective Cohort Study and Literature Review

The primary purpose of our study was to investigate hamate fractures at a single tertiary hand surgery unit in Western Australia, particularly comparing operative and nonsurgical outcomes. Patients with hamate and/or hamate plus fifth carpometacarpal injury at our hand unit between 2019 and 2022 were identified. All patients had Quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) patient-reported outcome measures recorded post treatment. Patients managed operatively and nonsurgically had a period of splinting with plaster of Paris and/or thermoplastic splint for a minimum of 2 weeks. All patients underwent hand therapy. Forty-eight patients with hamate and/or hamate plus fifth carpometacarpal injury were included in this study. Thirteen patients had Milch type 1 fractures, and 35 had Milch type 2 fractures. Six Milch type 1 fractures were managed operatively, and seven were managed nonsurgically. The average QuickDASH score for the operative group was 0.38. The average QuickDASH score for the nonsurgical group was 0.65. Sixteen Milch type 2 fractures were managed operatively, and 19 were managed nonsurgically. The average QuickDASH score for the operative group was 1.3. The average QuickDASH score for the nonsurgical group was 3.5. For Milch type 2 fractures, patient-reported outcome measures were better for the operative group compared with the nonsurgical group. Therapeutic IV.

The feasibility of K XRF bone lead measurements in mice assessed using 3D-printed phantoms

This article describes the development of a system for in vivo measurements of lead body burden in mice using 109Cd K x-ray fluorescence (XRF). This K XRF system could facilitate early-stage studies on interventions that ameliorate or reverse organ tissue damage from lead poisoning by reducing animal numbers through a cross-sectional study approach. A novel mouse phantom was developed based on a mouse atlas and 3D-printed using PLA plastic with plaster of Paris ’bone’ inserts. PLA plastic was found to be a good surrogate for soft tissue in XRF measurements and the phantoms were found to be good models of mice. As expected, lead detection limits varied with mouse size, mouse orientation, and mouse position with respect to the source and detector. The work suggests that detection limits of 10 to 20 μg Pb per g bone mineral may be possible for a 2 to 3 hour XRF measurement in a single animal, an adequate limit for some pre-clinical studies. The 109Cd K XRF mouse measurement system was also modeled using the Monte Carlo code MCNP. The combination of experiment and modeling found that contrary to expectation, accurate measurements of lead levels in mice required calibration using mouse-specific calibration standards due to the coherent scatter peak normalization failing when small animals are measured. MCNP modeling determined that this was because the coherent scatter signal from soft tissue, which until now has been assumed negligible, becomes significant when compared to the coherent scatter signal in bone in small animals. This may have implications for some human measurements. This work suggests that 109Cd K x-ray fluorescence measurements of lead body burden are precise enough to make the system feasible for small animals if appropriately calibrated. Further work to validate the technology’s measurement accuracy and performance in vivo will be required.

Surgical and critical care management of earthquake musculoskeletal injuries and crush syndrome: A collective review.

Earthquakes are unpredictable natural disasters causing massive injuries. We aim to review the surgical management of earthquake musculoskeletal injuries and the critical care of crush syndrome. We searched the English literature in PubMed without time restriction to select relevant papers. Retrieved articles were critically appraised and summarized. Open wounds should be cleaned, debrided, receive antibiotics, receive tetanus toxoid unless vaccinated in the last 5 years, and re-debrided as needed. The lower limb affected 48.5% (21.9%-81.4%) of body regions/patients. Fractures occurred in 31.1% (11.3%-78%) of body regions/patients. The most common surgery was open reduction and internal fixation done in 21% (0%-76.6%), followed by plaster of Paris in 18.2% (2.3%-48.8%), and external fixation in 6.6% (1%-13%) of operations/patients. Open fractures should be treated with external fixation. Internal fixation should not be done until the wound becomes clean and the fractured bones are properly covered with skin, skin graft, or flap. Fasciotomies were done in 15% (2.8%-27.2%), while amputations were done in 3.7% (0.4%-11.5%) of body regions/patients. Principles of treating crush syndrome include: (1) administering proper intravenous fluids to maintain adequate urine output, (2) monitoring and managing hyperkalemia, and (3) considering renal replacement therapy in case of volume overload, severe hyperkalemia, severe acidemia, or severe uremia. Low-quality studies addressed indications for fasciotomy, amputation, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Prospective data collection on future medical management of earthquake injuries should be part of future disaster preparedness. We hope that this review will carry the essential knowledge needed for properly managing earthquake musculoskeletal injuries and crush syndrome in hospitalized patients.

A Study on Choosing Bricks on Site During Construction

Large numbers of bricks are required to meet the needs of increasing population for both residential and commercial sectors. The overall development and industrial development lead to the use of the traditional bricks at a very hefty rate. The traditional bricks are commonly made up of clay as its main component as a result it is on the verge of exhaustion. To standardize its broad, utilize and discovering its auxiliary one is the need of the hour. In this study, bricks were made by using different proportions of alternative materials like fly ash(FA), sand, lime and plaster of Paris . The size of sample 220×130×900 mm was manufactured and quality constraints like compressive strength and water absorption were tested at different curing ages. The cost-effective mix design of the bricks for optimum compressive strength and rate analysis was also the part of this study. It was detected from the observation of results that the compressive strength decreases with increasing percentage in fly ash and increases with increasing percentage of sand and lime in fly ash-based bricks. Increment in water absorption was observed as fly ash content is increased and decrement of water absorption is seen with increasing percentage of sand and lime in fly ash-based bricks.