Increasing the Biological Resistance of Gypsum by Means of Silver, Calcium and Copper Ions

Abstract

The article focuses on the effects of additives increasing biological resistance of gypsum against degradation of the material. In this study we use silver nitrate, calcium oxide and copper sulphate as an additive that improves biological resistance of gypsum composites. The amount of addition was calculated so that the amount of ions was 0.1, 0.3 and 0.5 wt. %. Microbial degradation was determined as the degree of resistance of materials to the occurrence of bacteria and molds by optical and electron microscope. The results obtained from these samples were compared with references materials created in the laboratory and available on today’s market. The results show a positive effect of silver and copper ions on the bioresistance of gypsum.