During the drying process, the original strength of gypsum is restored. The dried gypsum will normally be slightly ______ than before wetting.

The drying process of gypsum can lead to the material becoming slightly stronger than it was prior to wetting. When gypsum dries, especially if properly handled during the drying process, it often experiences a crystallization that can enhance its overall structural integrity. This phenomenon is largely due to the evaporation of moisture, which allows the remaining gypsum to consolidate and re-establish its bond structure more effectively.

While it might seem intuitive to think that wetting a material could weaken it or that drying would restore it to its original state, in the case of gypsum, the drying process can actually result in a slight increase in strength. This is particularly true if the drying is done carefully to avoid issues like thermal shock or rapid drying, which can compromise the material's properties.

Understanding this aspect of gypsum is important for restoration practices, as it informs technicians of the potential benefits of drying methods in restoring structural elements after water damage.