Fertorakos Limestone

The quarry in Fertőrákos, Hungary, was closed in 1948 and is no longer actively operating.

However, the area has become a popular tourist attraction due to its historical and cultural significance. The Fertőrákos Cave Theatre and Quarry Theme Park offer visitors exhibitions about the old quarry, its geological features, and its historical use. Visitors can explore cave-like chambers in the quarry to learn about stone mining, stone craftsmanship, and paleontological history. The site also hosts cultural events such as concerts, theatre performances, and festivals during the summer. 

If you are interested in sourcing stone from Fertőrákos or similar products, you would need to contact active quarries in the region. For example, there is an active limestone quarry near Boglár Hill, not far from Fertőrákos, which supplies materials for construction and landscaping projects.

In conclusion, the historic Fertőrákos quarry is no longer active, but other nearby active quarries can meet stone supply needs.

Physical and Mechanical Properties:

• Water Absorption:Moderate water absorption rate, making it suitable for both interior and sheltered exterior applications.

• Density:Typical density ranges from 2,400 to 2,600 kg/m³.

• Flexural Strength:Generally around 8 to 10 MPa, indicative of good resistance to bending and stress.

• Compressive Strength:Approximately 60 to 70 MPa, showing its capability to withstand significant pressure.

• Hardness:Rated on the Mohs scale around 3 to 4, making it softer than granite but durable enough for various uses.

• Porosity:Varies but typically around 3 to 5%, giving the stone some natural porosity.

• Slip Resistance:Surface finish dependent, with honed finishes offering moderate slip resistance and textured finishes like bush-hammered providing higher slip resistance.

Chemical and Mineral Composition:

• Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3):Typically comprises the majority, about 85-95% by weight.

• Silica (SiO2):Generally a minor component, ranging between 2-4%.

• Iron Oxide (Fe2O3):Often less than 1%, providing slight color variation.

• Magnesium Carbonate (MgCO3):About 1-2%, contributing to the stone's physical properties.

• Other Trace Minerals:May include small amounts of clay minerals, feldspar, and organic materials.

Usage:

Interior Applications:

• Flooring
• Wall cladding
• Staircases
• Fireplace surrounds

Exterior Applications:

• Facades (when adequately sealed)
• Pavements and pathways in sheltered areas

Decorative Use:

• Columns and moldings
• Sculptures and decorative pieces

Maintenance:

• Requires regular cleaning with a pH-neutral cleanser.
• Sealing is recommended to enhance stain resistance and longevity.
• Avoid acidic cleaners which can etch the surface.

Cutting Sizes:

• Available in varied standard sizes, commonly in tiles and slabs.
• Common cutting sizes:
• Tiles: 30x30 cm, 60x30 cm, 60x60 cm.
• Slabs: Custom sizes upon request.

Surface Finish Options:

• Polished:Offers a glossy surface, enhancing natural color and patterns but reducing slip resistance.

• Honed:Provides a smooth, matte finish suitable for most indoor applications.

• Bush-Hammered:A rough, textured surface increasing slip resistance for exterior or wet areas.

• Brushed:Soft, satin-like texture, providing an antiqued appearance while retaining slip-resistance.

• Sandblasted:Similar to bush-hammered but finer, offering moderate slip resistance.

Fertőrákos Limestone, with its aesthetic appeal and versatile applications, makes an excellent choice for both residential and commercial projects, imparting a touch of elegance and historical charm. Its maintenance and durability ensure long-lasting performance in suitable environments.