What is Engineered Stone? Engineered stone is a composite material made from crushed stone bound together with a binder such as cement, polymers, or resins. It is also referred to as “manufactured” stone. It is available in a wide range of colors and styles and can be used for a variety of applications. Engineered stone is a great choice for homeowners who want the look and feel of natural stone, but without the large costs and high maintenance. Engineered stone is created by mixing together crushed stone, such as quartz, granite, marble, or other minerals, with a binder and then compacting it into sheets or slabs. The sheets or slabs are then cut into the desired shape and size. The binder is usually a combination of resins and other substances, such as waxes, and coloring pigments, that give the engineered stone its look and feel. What is Sintered Stone? Sintered stone is one of the most advanced engineered stone just recently emerging on the market. Sintered stone is a type of engineered stone that is heated at temperatures that exceed twelve hundred degrees celsius while being compressed under extremely high pressure. This sintering process binds the fine particles of stone together and allows for more intricate designs than traditional engineered stone. Unlike its’ counter-parts, Sintered stone is made without man made resins. It is made of one hundred percent inorganic matter. Sintered stone is extremely strong and durable, making it perfect for multiple applications such as countertops, flooring, furniture, and wall cladding.
History of Engineered Stone
The history of engineered stone dates back to the 1960s when Italian company Breton developed a process to create an industrial product using natural stone aggregates and resin. Breton's process involved mixing crushed natural stone with polyester resin and then subjecting the mixture to high pressure and vibration. This resulted in a dense and durable material that had the appearance of natural stone but was more consistent in color and pattern. This new material became known as Bretonstone and was used primarily for kitchen countertops and flooring.
In the 1980s, another Italian company, Santa Margherita, developed a similar process and introduced a new line of engineered stone products. These products were marketed under the brand name Quartz stone and were made using a mixture of natural quartz, resin, and pigments.
Over the years, engineered stone has become increasingly popular as a substitute for natural stone in a wide range of applications. The technology used to create these products has advanced significantly, and newer versions of engineered stone produced through sintering are even more durable and realistic-looking than earlier versions.
Advantages of Sintered Stone Sintered stone is a great choice for homeowners looking for a durable, low maintenance affordable material. Sintered stone has many advantages over other materials. It is extremely durable and resistant to stains, scratches, and heat. It is also lightweight and easy to install, making it perfect for DIY projects or those looking to save on installation costs. Another advantage of sintered stone is its ability to be cut into intricate designs, allowing for a truly unique look.
Applications of Sintered Stone Sintered stone can be used in a variety of applications, from countertops, wall cladding, flooring, stunning decor, furniture, and a variety of outdoor applications. It is perfect for high-traffic areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, as it is resistant to stains and scratches. It is also heat resistant, making it a great choice for any area that may be exposed to heat. The possibilities to apply Sintered stone to enhance any project are infinite, and the designs and appeal make them an attractive choice today over quartz and other engineered stone.
Conclusion Engineered stone and the introduction of sintered stone has changed the way we use stone in home design and construction. Engineered stone has been around for many decades and is a great choice for homeowners who want the look and feel of natural stone, however Sintered stone comes without the maintenance and costly upkeep, and has many advantages over other materials, including its durability and ability to be cut into intricate designs. Whether you are looking for a low-maintenance material for a DIY project or a unique design for your home, sintered stone is the best choice, and will continue to be the most popular choice for years to come.
Comments