Chiampo Perlato Limestone

Chiampo Perlato Limestone is a light-beige Italian limestone known for its attractive appearance and durability, often used in architectural and design applications. This limestone is quarried in various locations within the Province of Vicenza in the Veneto region of Italy, including Arzignano, Chiampo, Cornedo Vicentino, Nogarole, Piovene, and Valdagno. Here is a detailed description of its properties, compositions, and applications:

Physical and Mechanical Properties:

• Color: Light beige with numerous macro-fossils.
• Water Absorption: 0.64%
• Density: 2650 kg/m³
• Flexural Strength: 16.9 MPa
• Compressive Strength: 207.0 - 218.0 MPa
• Hardness: Medium (exact measure often unlisted; consult specific manufacturers for precise values).
• Porosity: Low to medium, contributing to its density and resistance properties.
• Slip Resistance: Varies with surface finish; honed or polished finishes have different slip resistance compared to sawn or sandblasted surfaces.

Chemical and Mineral Composition (% by Weight):

• Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3): Predominantly high, as with most limestones, generally over 90%.
• Silica (SiO2): Trace amounts, contributing to the structural matrix.
• Iron Oxides (Fe2O3): Trace amounts, often affecting color and patterns.
• Clay Minerals: Minor constituents that could affect the limestone's workability and aesthetic.
• Organic Material: Often includes fossils that contribute to the unique visual characteristics.

Usage and Applications:

• Interior Flooring: Due to its aesthetic appeal and durability.
• Wall Cladding: Suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
• Countertops and Vanity Tops: Its density and appearance make it ideal for kitchen and bathroom applications.
• Statues and Sculptures: Can be used for artistic purposes due to its workability.
• Architectural Features: Used in columns, staircases, and other decorative elements.

Maintenance:

• Cleaning: Regular cleaning with mild, non-abrasive cleansers is recommended to maintain its appearance.
• Sealing: Periodic sealing may be necessary, especially for high-traffic areas, to protect against staining and moisture.
• Polishing and Restoration: Can be polished to restore shine in case of wear over time.

Cutting Sizes (cm):

• Typically cut to standard tile sizes like 30x30, 60x30, and custom dimensions are available upon request, depending on supplier capability and project specifications.

Available Common Surface Finish Options:

• Polished: Offers a high-gloss, smooth finish, enhancing color and patterns but can be more slippery.
• Honed: Provides a smooth, matte finish preferred for less slippery surfaces.
• Brushed: Creates a textured, aged look with subtle color variations.
• Sawn: A slightly rough surface, often left untreated or minimally finished.
• Sandblasted: Coarse finish providing good slip resistance, often used for exteriors.

Chiampo Perlato Limestone, with its warm appearance and excellent mechanical properties, makes it a versatile and popular choice for a variety of architectural and decorative purposes. When selecting this material, consider project-specific requirements such as physical demands and aesthetic preferences to ensure its optimal application and long-term performance.

• Petrographic Definition: Limestone
• Unit Volume Mass: 2650 kg/m³
• Water Absorption: 0.64%
• Simple Compressive Strength: 218 MPa
• Compressive Strength after Freezing: 207 MPa
• Tensile Strength (Indirect Flexure): 16.9 MPa
• Abrasion Coefficient (relative to Granite St. Fedelino): 0.67
• Impact Resistance (minimum fall height): 40 cm
• Linear Thermal Expansion Coefficient: 4.3 × 10⁻⁵ °C⁻¹
• Knoop Microhardness: 1844 MPa
• Hardness Unevenness Index: 1.16

Source: Università di Pisa – Politecnico di Torino