Abstract: Mortar samples were prepared by using different desulfuration gypsum whisker(0,0.5wt%,1wt%,2wt%,3wt%) as toughening agent.The samples' mechanical properties at different ages(3 d,7 d,28 d), microstructure of gypsum whisker and it distribution in cement matrix were detected.It was found that the flexural strength and compression strength of sample added with 1wt% desulfuration gypsum whisker were increased by 28.41% and 45.65%, respectively.The mechanisms of the reinforcement of desulfuration gypsum whisker on cement were also discussed, the mechanical improvement can be explained by the energy-dissipating processes owing to crack bridging, crack deflection, and whisker pull-out at the crack tips.

Key words: desulfuration gypsum whisker;flexural strength;compression strength;cement matrix;microstructure