Blanco Santander Granite

Blanco Santander Granite is an elegant and versatile natural stone, sourced from Valdemanco, Sierra de Guadarrama in the province and Comunidad of Madrid, Spain. Known for its predominantly white to light grey background, it often features subtle beige or grey undertones and occasional small mineral flecks. This creates a unique but generally soft and neutral appearance, making it suitable for a variety of design styles and applications.

Physical and Mechanical Properties:

• Water Absorption: 0.30%. Indicates low porosity, contributing to its durability and suitability for both interior and exterior use.
• Density: 2610 kg/m³. Relatively high density, typical for granite, offering substantial strength and mass.
• Flexural Strength: 14.5 MPa. Demonstrates its ability to withstand bending forces, suitable for various structural applications.
• Compressive Strength: 195.5 MPa. High compressive strength, indicating excellent load-bearing capacity, crucial for flooring and heavy-duty surfaces.
• Hardness: Typically high, akin to other granites, making it resistant to scratching and everyday wear.
• Porosity: Low, further enhancing its resistance to moisture and staining.
• Slip Resistance: Varies based on finish but typically offers good slip resistance, especially with textured finishes.

Chemical and Mineral Composition:

• Quartz: Approximately 30-35% (by weight). Contributes to hardness and durability.
• Feldspar: Predominantly Potassium and Sodium feldspar at about 50-60%. Essential for the stone’s structure and contributes to its light coloration.
• Mica: Approximately 5-10%. Adds subtle glimmer and aids in overall structural integrity.
• Minor Minerals: Trace amounts of minerals such as biotite, amphiboles providing unique speckles and texture.

Usage:

• Countertops: Ideal for kitchen and bathroom countertops due to its durability and elegant appearance.
• Flooring: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, providing a luxurious yet resilient surface.
• Wall Cladding: Enhances architectural features and provides a refined, timeless aesthetic.
• Decorative Stonework: Used in various artistic and decorative applications due to its appealing color and texture.

Maintenance:

• Regular Cleaning: Use pH-balanced cleaners and avoid harsh chemicals to maintain its original appearance.
• Sealing: Apply a sealant periodically to enhance stain resistance, particularly in high-use areas like kitchens.
• Avoidance of Abrasives: Prevent scratches by using non-abrasive cleaning tools and pads.

Cutting Sizes:

Available in custom sizes, but common dimensions include:

• Slabs: Generally 2-3 cm thick, with varying lengths and widths based on specific project requirements.
• Tiles: Standard sizes such as 30x30 cm, 60x30 cm, and 60x60 cm are commonly available.

Surface Finish Options:

• Polished: Provides a glossy, mirror-like finish that enhances the natural color and pattern.
• Sawn Cut: Araw, rough finish with natural texture.
• Sandblasted: Slightly roughened, non-reflective surface for slip resistance.
• Rockfaced: A more rustic, textured finish ideal for exteriors.

Blanco Santander Granite’s blend of beauty and robustness, combined with its varied finish options, makes it a quintessential choice for a broad range of architectural and decorative applications. Its timeless elegance and impressive technical credentials ensure both aesthetic appeal and practical performance across various environments.

Test Result:

• Water Absorption at Atmospheric Pressure (EN 13755): 0.30%
• Compressive Strength (EN 1926): 193.3 MPa
• Flexural Strength / Resistance to Bending (EN 12372): 16.1 MPa
• Frost Resistance (48 cycles) (EN 12371):Reduction in bending strength: —, Change in apparent volume: < 0.02%
• Abrasion Resistance (EN 14157): 15.7 mm
• Anchor Breaking Load (EN 13364): 2,350 N
• Thermal Shock (Change in Mass) (EN 14066): 0.04% (no significant change)
• Apparent Density / Open Porosity (EN 1936): Apparent Density: 2,610 kg/m³ Open Porosity: 0.90%