Hreppholar Basalt

About
Item Details
- Material Type:
- Basalt
- Origin:
Iceland (Flúðir(Fludir), Selfoss, Hrunamannhreppur district, South Iceland) - Primary Color(s):
- Grey
- Recommended Usage:
- monuments, building stone, ornamental stone, stairs, interior, exterior wall and floor applications, mosaic, waterjet pattern, wall panels, table tops, window sills, balustrades, columns, wall and pool copings, pool pavers, sculptures, fireplaces, pavers, cobbles, curbstone
- Additional Names:
- Hrepphölar Dark Grey Basalt, Fludir Basalt, Flúðir Lava Stone, Hreppholar Black Basalt, Hrepphólar Basalt, Hreppholar Basalt
- Finished Surface:
- Flamed,Bush Hammered,Tumbled,Brushed,Honed,Split,Machine Cut,Natural Surface,Sandblasted,Acid Washing,Combed,Leathered,Water Jet,Filled,Chiseled,Pickling
Testing
- Water Absorption:
- 1%<
- Density:
- 2800 kg/m³
- Flexural Strength:
- 10 - 15 MPa
- Compressive Strength:
- 160 - 180 MPa
- Stone texture:
- dense, Dark grey to nearly black, Subtle tonal movement with occasional natural vesicles (small air pockets)
Description
Hreppholar Basalt is a dense, durable type of basalt quarried in the Hrunamannhreppur district near Flúðir (Fludir) and Selfoss in South Iceland. This stone exhibits a dark grey to nearly black hue with subtle tonal variations and occasional natural vesicles, which are small air pockets created during the cooling of lava.
Physical and Mechanical Properties
-
Water Absorption: Low water absorption, typically less than 1%, indicating good resistance to water penetration.
-
Density: Typically around 2,800 kg/m³ (kilograms per cubic meter), denoting its compact nature.
-
Flexural Strength: High flexural strength, often recorded between 10 to 15 MPa (megapascals), making it resistant to breaking under tension.
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Compressive Strength: Very high compressive strength, typically ranging from 160 to 180 MPa, indicative of its ability to withstand substantial loads.
-
Hardness: On the Mohs scale, it generally ranges from 5.5 to 6.0, contributing to its good wear resistance.
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Porosity: Low porosity, generally below 1%, meaning few void spaces and hence high durability.
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Slip Resistance: Offers good slip resistance due to its textured surface and natural vesicles, making it suitable for wet environments.
Chemical and Mineral Composition
- Silica (SiO₂): 45-55%
- Alumina (Al₂O₃): 14-18%
- Iron Oxides (FeO, Fe₂O₃): 10-15%
- Calcium Oxide (CaO): 8-12%
- Magnesium Oxide (MgO): 5-8%
- Sodium Oxide (Na₂O) and Potassium Oxide (K₂O): 3-5%
**Minor elements such as Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) and Manganese Oxide (MnO) are also present in small quantities.
Usage
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Construction: Due to its high compressive strength and low water absorption, it is suitable for both interior and exterior cladding, paving, and flooring applications.
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Landscaping: Its natural aesthetics complement garden paths, patios, and poolside areas.
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Design: Can be used in countertops, staircases, fountain cladding, and other architectural features.
Maintenance
-
Requires minimal maintenance due to its robust nature.
-
Regular cleaning with water and mild detergent is sufficient; avoid acidic cleaners to prolong the surface finish.
Surface Finish Options
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Polished: Provides a high-gloss finish, enhancing the stone's natural colors.
-
Honed: Offers a smooth, matte finish without reflection.
-
Flamed: Achieved by high-temperature treatment, providing a rough texture with excellent slip resistance.
-
Bush-Hammered: Creates a rugged surface through impact tools, increasing the roughness and providing a non-slip surface.
-
Natural Cleft/Split: Retains its natural, rough surface, ideal for rustic aesthetics.
Each finish can alter the stone's appearance and functionality, catering to specific design requirements and usage environments.















