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Blue Cad Limestone

Blue - Limestone

Portugal

About

Item Details

Material Type:
Limestone
Origin:
Portugal (Cadoiço,Aljubarrota,Alcobaça)
Primary Color(s):
Blue
Recommended Usage:
Kitchen and bathroom countertops, wash basins, building stone, ornamental stone, stairs, interior, exterior wall and floor applications, mosaic, waterjet pattern, wall panels, table tops, balustrades, columns, wall and pool copings, pool pavers, sculptures, fireplaces
Additional Names:
Azul Cad Limestone, Atlantic Blue Limestone, Atlantic Azul Limestone, Azul Atlantico Limestone, Calcare Azul Atlântico, Calcare Azul Cadoiço, Calcário Azul Cadoiço, Blue Cad
Finished Surface:
Polished,Bush Hammered,Tumbled,Brushed,Honed,Split,Machine Cut,Natural Surface,Sandblasted,Acid Washing,Combed,Leathered,Water Jet,Filled,Chiseled,Pickling

Testing

Water Absorption:
0.5 %
Density:
2650 Kg/m3
Flexural Strength:
198 Kg/cm2
Compressive Strength:
1885 - 2100 Kg/cm2
Stone texture:
earthy, fossil-rich composition and distinctive "blue-grey" to "beige-grey" tones. Color Palette:​ A complex, muted blend of soft blue-grey, warm beige-grey, and creamy off-white. The base color is a gentle, cool grey ("blue" in its commercial name refers to this subtle undertone, not a vivid blue). This is overlaid with darker grey fossil fragments and iron oxide streaks. Texture & Fossil Content:​ The most defining feature is its highly fossiliferous and porous texture. The surface is densely packed with: Shell Fossils:​ Numerous fragmented and whole shells (primarily bivalves and gastropods), appearing as white, grey, or brownish inclusions, creating a highly textured, historical surface. Fine Porosity:​ A uniform, fine pitting or "sugar cube" texture between the fossils. Subtle Veining:​ Occasional thin, wavy veins of darker grey or ochre (iron oxides). Pattern:​ The pattern is organic, random, and uniformly busy​ due to the high density of fossil fragments. It has no directional grain, offering a consistent, natural canvas.

Description

Blue Cad Limestone, a notable material quarried in Cadoiço, Aljubarrota, Alcobaça, Portugal, is revered for its aesthetic appeal and practical applications. Below is a comprehensive overview of its physical and mechanical properties, chemical composition, and application details:

Physical and Mechanical Properties

  • Water Absorption: 0.5%
  • Density: 2650 kg/m³
  • Flexural Strength: 198 kg/cm²
  • Compressive Strength: 1885 - 2100 kg/cm²
  • Hardness: Typically on the lower end of the Mohs scale (3-4), consistent with limestone.
  • Porosity: Characterized by fine porosity due to its fossiliferous nature.
  • Slip Resistance: Moderate; varies with surface finish. Polished surfaces may be less slip-resistant compared to honed or textured finishes.

Chemical and Mineral Composition (Approximate % by Weight)

  • Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃): Predominant, typically 90-95%
  • Magnesium Carbonate (MgCO₃): 1-3%
  • Silica (SiO₂): 1-2%
  • Iron Oxides (Fe₂O₃): 0.5-1%
  • Alumina (Al₂O₃) and other trace elements: <1%

Usage

  • Interior Design: Flooring, wall cladding, countertops, and decorative elements.
  • Exterior Applications: Facades, paving, and landscaping features.
  • Sculpture and Art: Thanks to its ease of carving and fossilized texture.

Maintenance

  • Routine Cleaning: Use a mild pH-neutral cleaner; avoid acidic or abrasive substances that could damage the surface.
  • Sealing: Recommended to protect against stains and enhance durability; frequency depends on exposure and traffic.

Cutting Sizes (Common)

  • Standard Tiles: 30x30 cm, 30x60 cm, 40x40 cm, 60x60 cm.
  • Slabs: Custom sizes up to 2m x 3m, typically around 2-3 cm thickness.
  • Custom Specifications: Available upon request for specific projects.

Surface Finish Options

  • Polished: High-gloss finish, highlighting the stone’s color and fossil details; best for low-traffic areas.
  • Honed: Smooth but matte finish, ideal for flooring and areas with higher traffic.
  • Antiqued/Tumbled: Aged appearance, enhancing its natural rugged look.
  • Brushed: Soft texture that enhances slip resistance.
  • Sandblasted or Bush-Hammered: Textured surfaces for exterior or high-traffic areas, improving slip resistance.

This limestone's versatility and distinctive aesthetic, coupled with its historical and organic allure, make it an excellent choice for various architectural and design applications worldwide.

FAQ

Can Portugal's Blue Cad Limestone be used in a office?

Yes, Portugals Blue Cad Limestone can be used in an office setting. Limestone is a versatile and durable natural stone that can be used for various applications, including flooring, countertops, wall cladding, and more. Portugals Blue Cad Limestone has a beautiful blue-gray color with occasional veins and fossils, providing a unique and elegant look to any space. It can create a sophisticated and professional ambiance in an office, making it a suitable choice for flooring, reception desks, or other decorative elements. However, it is essential to consider factors such as maintenance requirements, slip resistance, and durability when choosing any type of stone for an office environment.

Can Portugal's Blue Cad Limestone be used exterior applications in hot climates?

Portugals Blue Cad Limestone can be used for exterior applications in hot climates. Limestone is a popular choice for outdoor use due to its durability and ability to withstand various weather conditions. The Blue Cad Limestone is known for its resistance to heat and its ability to remain cool even in hot temperatures. Its light color also helps in reflecting sunlight and preventing heat absorption. However, it is always recommended to consult with a professional architect or an expert in the field to ensure the suitability of any specific stone for your desired application.

How thick is Portugal's Blue Cad Limestone slabs?

The thickness of Portugals Blue Cad Limestone slabs can vary, but typically they are available in thicknesses between 2 cm (0.8 inches) to 3 cm (1.2 inches). However, it is important to note that the exact thickness can be customized based on individual customer requirements.

Can Portugal's Blue Cad Limestone be used in landscaping?

Yes, Portugals Blue Cad Limestone can be used in landscaping. It is frequently used for projects such as patios, pathways, garden walls, and outdoor flooring. Its blue-gray color and natural texture can create an elegant and sophisticated look in outdoor spaces. Additionally, limestone is a durable and low-maintenance material, making it suitable for landscaping applications.

Are there color variations of Portugal's Blue Cad Limestone?

Yes, there can be some color variations found in Portugals Blue Cad Limestone. The exact shade and color variation can depend on various factors such as the quarry location and the specific batch of stone being extracted. Generally, Portugals Blue Cad Limestone is characterized by its grayish-blue color with occasional lighter or darker blue streaks.

Is Portugal's Blue Cad Limestone an expensive stone?

I do not have access to up-to-date market information. However, generally, the price of Portugals Blue Cad limestone can vary depending on factors such as availability, extraction difficulty, shipping costs, and processing. It may be considered expensive compared to other types of limestone. For current prices and information, it is advisable to check with stone suppliers and manufacturers.

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