Question 1

What is पलस्तर (Plaster Finish)?

Accepted Answer

पलस्तर (Palastar), encompassing लेप (Lepa), अस्तर (Astara), and प्लास्टर (Plāstara), refers to plaster finishes extensively used in Indic heritage architecture. Traditionally, it comprises lime (Chuna – சுண்ணாம்பு), gypsum, or cement, mixed with aggregates and water to form a workable paste [1]. Gypsum-based पलस्तर exhibits a density of 800-1000 kg/m³ and compressive strength of 2-5 MPa. Lime-based versions, historically prevalent, utilized locally sourced limestone from quarries across the subcontinent. The Maurya, Gupta, and Mughal dynasties employed पलस्तर extensively for both structural and aesthetic purposes.

Processing involves calcination of raw materials followed by grinding and mixing. Durability is affected by environmental factors; conservation requires careful assessment of material composition and application of compatible repair mortars. Traditional techniques, documented in ancient texts, emphasize slow curing to minimize cracking. Restoration projects at sites like Ajanta and Ellora necessitate specialized knowledge of पलस्तर composition and application techniques to preserve authenticity. Understanding the geological origins of materials and traditional processing methods is crucial for effective conservation [2], [3].

Question 2

What type of material is पलस्तर (Plaster Finish)?

Accepted Answer

पलस्तर (Plaster Finish) is classified as Mortar, Coating, Finish. Key properties include Density: 800-1000 kg/m³ (Gypsum), Compressive Strength: 2-5 MPa (Gypsum), Thermal Conductivity: 0.25 W/mK (Gypsum).

Question 3

Where is पलस्तर (Plaster Finish) used?

Accepted Answer

पलस्तर (Plaster Finish) is commonly used in Global. It is sourced from Gypsum, Lime.

Question 4

How is पलस्तर (Plaster Finish) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

पलस्तर (Plaster Finish) is used for Wall finish, Ceiling finish, Decorative moldings, Fireproofing, Surface preparation for painting in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for पलस्तर (Plaster Finish)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of पलस्तर (Plaster Finish) requires attention to Susceptible to moisture damage and Requires proper ventilation. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	पलस्तर (Plaster Finish) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Palastar Plaster Finish 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	पलस्तर (Palastar), encompassing लेप (Lepa), अस्तर (Astara), and प्लास्टर (Plāstara), refers to plaster finishes extensively used in Indic heritage architecture. Traditionally, it comprises lime (Chuna – சுண்ணாம்பு), gypsum, or cement, mixed with aggregates and water to form a workable paste [1]. Gypsum-based पलस्तर exhibits a density of 800-1000 kg/m³ and compressive strength of 2-5 MPa. Lime-based versions, historically prevalent, utilized locally sourced limestone from quarries across the subcontinent. The Maurya, Gupta, and Mughal dynasties employed पलस्तर extensively for both structural and aesthetic purposes. Processing involves calcination of raw materials followed by grinding and mixing. Durability is affected by environmental factors; conservation requires careful assessment of material composition and application of compatible repair mortars. Traditional techniques, documented in ancient texts, emphasize slow curing to minimize cracking. Restoration projects at sites like Ajanta and Ellora necessitate specialized knowledge of पलस्तर composition and application techniques to preserve authenticity. Understanding the geological origins of materials and traditional processing methods is crucial for effective conservation [2], [3].
Also Known As	Plaster Finish Palastar Plaster Finish Plaster Wall Plaster Rendering पलस्तर लेप अस्तर प्लास्टर சுண்ணாம்பு பூச்சு (Cunnāmpu pūccu) పూత (Pūta) ಗಾರೆ (Gāre) കുമ്മായം പൂശുക (Kummāyaṁ pūśuka)
Tags	Plaster Gypsum Lime Finish Wall Mortar Rendering
Material ID	`INHFMAT-940834350-20-11-25-PF`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/plaster-finish
API Endpoint	`https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/plaster-finish`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	0
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

पलस्तर (Plaster Finish)

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