Azul Cadoico Limestone

Azul Cadoico Limestone is a uniquely beautiful natural stone quarried in Portugal, notable for its elegant appearance and versatility in both residential and commercial architectural projects. Its distinctive aesthetic, defined by a blue-grey to dark steel-grey background, is enhanced by subtle tonal transitions and fine white calcite veins. This limestone features occasional fossil fragments and soft cloud-like patterns that contribute to its sophisticated visual texture, making it a popular choice for modern design applications.

Physical and Mechanical Properties:

• Water Absorption: 0.5% – 1.2%
• Density: 2670 – 2690 kg/m³
• Flexural Strength: 13 – 15 MPa
• Compressive Strength: 120 – 140 MPa
• Hardness: Medium (appropriate for limestone, generally measured using the Mohs scale, but typically not as hard as granite)
• Porosity: Relatively low due to its dense composition
• Slip Resistance: Varies with surface finish (honed finishes providing greater slip resistance compared to polished finishes)

Chemical and Mineral Composition (approximate % by weight):

• Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3): ~95%
• Silica (SiO2): Small traces
• Iron Oxides (Fe2O3): Small traces
• Additional minerals: Includes minor presence of fossils and other organic materials

Usage:

• Interior Flooring: Offers durability and aesthetic appeal for residential and commercial buildings
• Wall Cladding: Suitable for both exterior and interior applications, providing a sophisticated and elegant surface
• Countertops: An attractive choice for kitchen and bathroom surfaces with adequate sealing
• Staircases: Provides an elegant and coherent appearance from floor to floor
• Fireplaces: Ideal backdrop for feature fireplace designs
• Other Architectural Features: Used in columns, balustrades, and sculptural elements

Maintenance:

• Cleaning: Use neutral pH cleaners to avoid damage
• Sealing: Regular sealing recommended to protect against staining and moisture
• Polishing: Periodic polishing may be required to maintain a smooth and shiny surface, especially in high-traffic areas

Cutting Sizes (cm):

• Common Cutting Sizes: Custom sizes are available, but typical tiles measure 30x60, 60x60, and other modular sizes. For slabs, dimensions can vary but often come in thicknesses of 2 cm and 3 cm.

Available Common Surface Finish Options:

• Polished: Enhances color and provides a glossy finish.
• Honed: Offers a smooth, matte surface, highlighting the stone's natural beauty with lower reflection.
• Brushed: Provides a textured finish that is slip-resistant and highlights the limestone’s natural patterns.
• Sandblasted: Yields a rough, textured appearance suitable for exterior surfaces.

Azul Cadoico Limestone is celebrated for its combination of natural beauty, functionality, and versatility, making it an excellent choice for various design and architectural projects. Its elegant appearance and robust physical properties allow for a wide range of applications, from luxurious interiors to impressive external facades.