Palladion Light Marble

Palladion Light Marble is a distinct and elegant natural stone quarried from the Didima mountain in Argolida, Greece. It's known for its subtle, sophisticated appearance featuring a light grey to soft earth-grey background with understated white, silver, and light grey veining. Occasionally, you may also notice faint beige or brown undertones that contribute to its contemporary charm. The marble’s compact calcitic composition, fine- to medium-grained crystalline texture, and homogeneous surface make it a popular choice for a variety of architectural applications.

Physical and Mechanical Properties

• Apparent Density (EN 1936): 2740 kg/m³
• Open Porosity (EN 1936): 1.1% vol.
• Water Absorption at Atmospheric Pressure (EN 13755): 0.3% wt.
• Compressive Strength (EN 1342 & EN 1926): 169 MPa
• Flexural Strength under Concentrated Load (EN 12372): 20.1 MPa
• Breaking Load at Dowel Hole (EN 13364): 2800 N
• Abrasion Resistance (EN 14157 – Method B): 7896 mm³
• Rupture Energy (EN 14158): 3 Joules
• Frost Resistance (EN 12371 & EN 12372): 18.1 MPa
• Hardness: Not specifically listed, but marble typically ranks around 3-4 on the Mohs scale.
• Porosity: Given the low water absorption, porosity is relatively low, contributing to its durability.
• Slip Resistance: This can depend on the finish; polished surfaces may have lower slip resistance compared to honed or textured finishes.

Chemical and Mineral Compositions

Mineralogical Description (EN 12407 / EN 12670): Dolomite

Mineralogical Composition:

• 91% Dolomite 
• 9% Calcite

Chemical Composition (% in dry substance):

• SiO₂: 0.65%
• Al₂O₃: <0.5%
• Fe₂O₃: 0.10%
• CaO: 35.00%
• MgO: 15.60%
• MnO: <0.10%
• TiO₂: <0.10%
• K₂O: 0.73%
• Na₂O: 0.28%
• LOI: 45.85%

Usage

• Interior Applications: Ideal for flooring, wall cladding, bathroom vanities, and countertops.
• Exterior Applications: Suitable for façades and other protected outdoor uses, although care should be taken when selecting finishes to ensure longevity and appearance.
• Decorative Items: Frequently used in decorative purposes such as fireplace surrounds, staircases, and table tops.

Maintenance

• Regular Cleaning: Use a pH-neutral cleaner designed for natural stone.
• Sealing: Periodic sealing is recommended to protect against staining and enhance durability.
• Avoid Abrasives: Do not use abrasive pads or acidic solutions which can damage the surface.

Cutting Sizes

• Common sizes vary, often customized based on project requirements:
• Standard tiles: 30x30 cm, 30x60 cm, 60x60 cm
• Slabs: Typically cut to desired project specifications.

Available Common Surface Finish Options

• Polished: Provides a glossy, reflective surface, accentuating the marble’s veining and color detail.
• Honed: Offers a matte finish with a soft, smooth surface, reducing slip risk.
• Brushed or Antiqued: Creates a textured finish that adds a rustic or aged look.
• Sandblasted: Delivers a rough, non-slip surface ideal for exterior applications like paving.

This marble's blend of aesthetic appeal and robust structural properties make it a favored choice for architects and designers seeking a timeless and versatile stone.