Verde Gala Granite

Verde Gala Granite is a striking and durable natural stone hailing from the Iberian Peninsula, specifically quarried in the town of Zalamea de la Serena in Badajoz, Spain. This granite is renowned for its rich, deep green to dark olive-green background, which provides an elegant and sophisticated aesthetic suitable for a variety of decorative purposes.

Physical and Mechanical Properties:

• Water Absorption: 0.1%
• Density: 2640 kg/m³
• Flexural Strength: 8.28 - 13.70 MPa
• Compressive Strength: 91.5 - 164.0 MPa
• Hardness: Typically high, although exact values are not specified, granite is generally known for its ability to resist abrasion and wear.
• Porosity: Low, contributing to its durabiluty and resistance to staining.
• Slip Resistance: Generally good, but can vary with finish; polished surfaces tend to be less slip-resistant compared to honed or flamed finishes.

Chemical and Mineral Composition (% by weight):

• Quartz: Approx. 20-30%
• Feldspar: Approx. 50-60%
• Dark Mica Minerals (e.g., Biotite): Approx. 10-15%
• Other Minerals (including minor components like amphibole, garnet): 5-10%
• Trace Elements: May include minerals imparting black, gray, and occasional golden or lighter accents.

Usage:

Verde Gala Granite is commonly used in both interior and exterior applications, including:

• Countertops: Its hardness and resistance to wear make it ideal for kitchen and bathroom countertops.
• Flooring: Highly suitable for high-traffic areas due to its durability.
• Wall Cladding: Offers a natural and appealing finish for both interior and exterior walls.
• Decorative Features: Can be used in creating striking feature walls, fireplace surrounds, and accent pieces.
• Facades and Monuments: Suitable for architectural elements and monuments, thanks to its resistance to weathering.

Maintenance:

• Cleaning: Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is recommended. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners that could damage the surface.
• Sealing: Although granite has low porosity, periodic sealing can help maintain its appearance and resistance to stains.
• Repair: Chips and scratches can be addressed with professional repair techniques if necessary.

Cutting Sizes (cm):

Verde Gala Granite can be cut into a variety of sizes depending on the project specifications, commonly available in:

• Slabs: Varying sizes, often up to 3 meters in length and 1.8 meters in width.
• Tiles: Standard sizes include 30x30, 30x60, and 60x60 cm, among others.
• Custom Sizes: Available upon request to suit specific project needs.

Available Common Surface Finish Options:

• Polished: High-gloss finish that enhances the color and pattern, but may reduce slip resistance.
• Honed: Smooth, matte finish that offers a more subdued appearance and increased slip resistance.
• Flamed: A rough texture created by high-temperature treatment, enhancing slip resistance for exterior applications.
• Brushed: Adds a textured finish that softens the stone's appearance and provides good slip resistance.
• Bush-Hammered: A heavily textured finish that enhances ruggedness and slip resistance.

In summary, Verde Gala Granite is a versatile and aesthetically pleasing material, suitable for a wide range of applications while offering excellent mechanical properties and low maintenance requirements. Its rich color palette and natural patterns make it a popular choice for both residential and commercial projects.

Test Result:

• Petrographic Description: Granite with large crystals
• Grain Size: Medium (porphyritic)
• Open Porosity: 0.2 %
• Apparent Density: 2640 kg/m³
• Abrasion Resistance: 17.5 mm
• Compressive Strength: 164 MPa
• Resistance to Concentrated Load Deflection: 13.7 MPa
• Knoop Microhardness: 2846 MPa
• Impact Resistance: 31 cm
• Water Absorption by Capillarity: 0.273 g/m² · s^0.5
• Freeze–Thaw Resistance (Flexural Variation After Cycles): 0 %
• Resistance to Salt Crystallization (Mass Variation): 0.09 %
• Water Absorption Under Atmospheric Pressure: 0.1 %
• Breaking Load: 2400 N