Limestone
Description
Limestone is a sedimentary rock primarily made of calcite, magnesium, and dolomite. A sedimentary rock is a type of stone made up of smaller stones that were fused together. It is also commonly found with small fragments of fossils and shells. These fragments are usually visible to the naked eye. Limestone usually gives off a gray color, but can also be white, yellow, or brown. Limestone being a very soft material, means that it can scratch very easily. It is very reactive to acids, so when it rains it can affect the quality of the stone. Erosion from wind and water is the most common issue. Limestone is found all over the world making it a very prominent building material. On the Mohs hardness scale, limestone falls just below a 4, for context diamonds are a 10. Limestone is the primary ingredient in cement making up over 70 percent of the ingredients.
Environmental Impact
Limestone is available worldwide, making it a very ecofriendly option for stone because there are very few shipping costs. Other than the shipping costs. Limestone like any other stone needs to be mined which causes a lot of environmental strain on the area. Mining causes groundwater to be contaminated and removes ecosystems to get the land for the mine. Limestone unlike many other stones doesn’t need much processing once mined making it a more sustainable option. Limestone is a key ingredient in the production of cement, and the production of cement accounts for 8% of global CO2 emissions. Limestone has a very conflicting environmental impact, as its common uses consistently have a very large impact on the environment.
Interior Uses
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Wall Tile - This wall tile gives the room a rough unfinished look. This is a more traditional use for limestone.
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Wall Panelling - This wall covering is a more modern polished look for limestone with a clean and finished look.
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Flooring - This floor tile, is also a more traditional look for limestone, being more rough and having variation between tiles.
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Table - This table is a blend of traditional aspects with a modern flare. The rough edges with the smooth sanded top gives a clean natural feel to the rest of the space.
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Staircase - This staircase has a fairly traditional feel, the white polished look, adds a level of luxury to the space very similar to marble.
Bathroom Tile
Limestone can be used in many different interior applications as an eco friendly alternative to other stone products. Depending on the style of how the limestone is made, it can add a layer of luxury, tradition, and modernness. Limestone also adds a nice level of texture in rather flat spaces. Limestone tiles are very popular in bathroom settings as they add warmth and comfort to these spaces.
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ASTM - C568/C568M − 22, C568/C568M-15, C25-19