Apparatus for cracking a gypsum matrix of a gypsum-based panel

Abstract

Lightweight construction panels, such as plasterboard, (e.g. gypsum plasterboard) are commonly used to provide internal partitions in buildings. Due to the use of plasterboard as in internal partition, it is desirable for plasterboard to absorb and block sound energy, such that sound from one room is not easily heard in an adjacent room. It has been found that providing micro cracks in the gypsum matrix of a gypsum-based panel improves the acoustic characteristics of the panel. Apparatus (300) is provided for cracking a gypsum matrix of a gypsum-based panel (10), the apparatus (300) comprising: a roller assembly (320), the roller assembly (320) configured to receive the panel (10) at an entrance of the roller assembly (320) and convey the panel (10) from the entrance to an exit of the roller assembly (320), wherein, between the entrance and the exit, the roller assembly (320) is configured to bend the panel (10) in a first direction.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.