The effect of mussel shell powder on the thermal and mechanical properties of plaster

Seashells accumulate rapidly, particularly in coastal areas and in countries that consume a lot of seafood. In order to be recycled and used in ordinary building materials, we have carried out a study into the feasibility of using the seashells in plaster as a substitute and additive. Two cases of incorporation were carried out, the first involving the substitution of plaster by seashell powder in percentages (4%, 8%, 12%, 16% and 20% by mass), the second consisting of the use of the powder as an additive in percentages (2%, 4%, 6%, 8% and 10%). The compressive and flexural strength values are close to those of the control gypsum. However, the use of powder as a substitute can improve the thermal insulation and durability of the gypsum composite.