Cinza Lages Granite

Cinza Lages Granite, quarried in Vila Boa do Bispo, Marco de Canaveses, Portugal, is well-regarded for its aesthetic appeal and utility in construction and design. This granite showcases a light to medium grey background, often displaying subtle bluish or silvery tones. Its composition includes a mix of quartz, feldspar, and biotite mica, resulting in a dense and compact material with a holocrystalline, granular texture.

Physical and Mechanical Properties:

• Water Absorption: Typically low, around 0.2-0.34%, making it resistant to moisture ingress.

• Density: Approximately 2.66-2.72 g/cm³, indicating a compact and robust structure.

• Flexural Strength: Generally ranges between 14-18 MPa, reflecting its ability to withstand bending forces.

• Compressive Strength: Ranges from 160-190 MPa, demonstrating its capacity to handle significant loads without crushing.

• Hardness: This granite is hard, contributing to its durability and resistance to wear and scratching. It typically measures around 6-7 on the Mohs scale.

• Porosity: Very low porosity, often between 0.1-0.4%, which contributes to its durability and resistance to stains.

• Slip Resistance: Moderately high, especially when the surface is rough-finished, making it appropriate for flooring applications.

Chemical and Mineral Compositions (% by Weight):

• Quartz: 25-35%
• Feldspar: 45-55%. Potassium Feldspar: 20-30%. Plagioclase Feldspar: 25-35%
• Biotite Mica: 5-10%
• Minor Minerals and Others: 1-5%. These may include trace amounts of minerals such as muscovite, chlorite, and accessory minerals.

Usage:

• Interior Applications: Ideal for countertops, flooring, and wall cladding due to its aesthetic appeal and durability.
• Exterior Applications: Suitable for facades, pavements, and exterior cladding given its resistance to weathering and wear.
• Monuments and Memorials: Its classic appearance makes it a popular choice for monuments.

Maintenance:

• Regular cleaning with mild detergent and water is recommended.
• Periodic sealing may be necessary, especially in high traffic or usage areas, to maintain its appearance and resist staining.
• Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners to preserve its surface finish.

Surface Finish Options:

• Polished: High gloss finish that enhances the color and patterns of the granite, suitable for interiors.
• Honed: A matte finish that provides a smooth surface without reflection, ideal for flooring.
• Flamed: A textured finish achieved by exposing the surface to high temperatures, making it slip-resistant and suitable for exterior use.
• Brushed: Offers a slightly textured, aged appearance, often used for decorative purposes.
• Bush-Hammered: A highly textured finish providing maximum slip resistance, often used in exterior applications.

Cinza Lages Granite's combination of aesthetic appeal, durability, and versatility makes it an excellent choice for various architectural and design projects.