Abstract: The calcium sulfate whiskers(CSW), made from gypsum mine or desulfurized gypsum, are a kind of industrial by-product. They are sub-nanofibrous materials used as the modifying agents, with good shape, large length-diameter ratio, large specific surface area and uniform cross section. Their wide use is limited by their low yield and poor quality. Their morphology and formation mechanism were focused first in the paper. Following it was the summary of their preparation methods at home and abroad. The research progress of preparation technologies such as atmospheric acidification, hydrothermal synthesis, ion exchange and micro-emulsion were introduced, and their advantages and disadvantages were both analyzed. Finally, their application in the field of material modification and environmental protection was discussed. This paper has an important influence on the further study of the preparation method and formation mechanism of CSW and can provide scientific guidance for its application in the future and comprehensive recycling of mineral resources.