Calcium sulfate dihydrate

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CAS 10101-41-4), commonly known as gypsum, is the naturally occurring and synthetically produced hydrated form of calcium sulfate approved as food additive E516.

It functions primarily as a firming agent, calcium fortifier, and pH regulator across food, pharmaceutical, and industrial manufacturing. In food production, it conditions dough in bread manufacturing.

It acts as a coagulant in tofu processing, where controlled calcium ion release determines final texture. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as a tablet diluent and binder in various formulations.

Its low solubility supports controlled disintegration in direct compression formulations. In agriculture, it supplies both calcium and sulfur to soil without significantly altering the pH levels.

This makes it a preferred amendment for high-value crops and compacted clay soils. The construction industry consumes the largest volumes as the base material for plasterboard and wall plaster.

It is also used as a cement retarder application. Calcium sulfate dihydrate is supplied as a white powder or as crushed mineral in varying particle size distributions for industrial use.

Recognized grades include food-grade (FCC), USP/Ph.Eur. for pharmaceutical use, and technical grade for construction and agricultural applications.

Bulk quantities are standard for construction and agricultural supply, while finer milled grades serve food and pharma procurement requirements for global manufacturers.