What is artificial stone? What is synthetic stone?
Engineered Stone is better known as artificial stone or synthetic stone . First introduced to the market in the 1960s, it consists of fragments of marble, quartzite, and granite, mixed with polymers and resins or cement to create a virtual synthetic stone that can determine the color, pattern and density of each stone. Generally it is made of white and black artificial stones, but there are also some other colors such as blue, cream. Red, grey, green and other pastel colors
With technological advances. Synthetic stone has been developed to be strong, durable and lightweight, but at a lower price than natural stone, which has a wide variety of styles to choose from and is widely popular in the market.
In this article, Siamtak will introduce artificial stone. There are 4 main types of synthetic stones that we sell in the store because they are the ones that we have the most information about: 1. Synthetic quartz stone 2. Artificial marble 3. Crystal composite stone 4. Terrazzo terrazzo stone
Synthetic quartz stone
Natural quartz stone rarely appears in the form of very thick and massive stone blocks. Due to its small stone size, it is not suitable for installation in large areas.
Therefore, it is commonly processed into synthetic stone in the ratio of quartz stone 90% - 94%, mixed with resin and synthetic colors in the ratio of 6% - 10%, which gives satisfactory results such as light weight, durability, ability to set patterns of color and pattern.
With durable and scratch-resistant properties. It is easy to clean and less porous than natural stone. Synthetic quartz stone is another option that suits the choice of natural stone, which is commonly installed in the form of kitchen countertops because it does not scratch easily and does not accumulate bacteria as well.
However, installation in areas exposed to heat above 150 degrees Celsius. It can cause damage, as synthetic quartz stone contains a mixture of resins and polymers. It is important to use a hot mat along with it in order to preserve the beauty of the stone in the installation area.
Engineered Stone
It consists of 75% - 90% of marble fractions and 10% - 24% of resins, polymers and synthetic colors to obtain patterns and colors that are as close as possible to natural marble.
Artificial marble can provide realistic patterns at a lower cost, however, with a small strength and a relatively high water penetration rate. Therefore, there are quite a few limitations in terms of use. Internal installation is more suitable than outdoor installation that is exposed to sun and rain, as the resin polymer mixture that is not heat resistant and the relatively high water penetration rate is not suitable for outdoor installation.
Crystal Composite Stone
Crystal Composite Stone contains quartz, glass and silica, making Crystal Composite Stone a non-porous synthetic stone. Does not absorb water, does not accumulate various bacteria, is difficult to scratch and easy to clean. It is also a stone that has a long service life because it is resistant to UV light, heat and acids. As a result, the color of the surface will not change much.
With durability Crystal composite stone can therefore be used in a multi-functional way. It can also be used as a countertop and table top, or in high-use industries such as hotels, spas or shopping malls.
Terrazzo
Terrazzo is another synthetic stone that has been formed since the 16th century by Italians by pouring mortar mixed with colored stone flakes and polished to create shine. Siamtak imported terrazzo slabs. Finished for easier implementation
TERRAZZO It is a stone with high strength, good weight bearing, can withstand scratches. The stone face is not porous because it is formed by casting so that there is no accumulation of bacteria and stains. It also makes it easy to clean.
Nowadays, it is becoming more popular due to its more pastel colors. Therefore, it is commonly installed in various points of the café. Can be installed as floor, wall, furniture, counter top. There is also an Icelandic western kitchen and dry zone bathrooms. It elevates the installation space to look lovely. More gimmicks
All of these are some of the synthetic stones that are popular today. Another option for those who are looking for a budget stone or have a limited budget. With its lower price and wide range of patterns to choose from, synthetic stone is another design and installation option. Although there are some limitations in its use, if installed in the right space and properly maintained, there can be a beautiful space that feels as natural as natural stone.