Microstructural characterization of silica-based granite stones using field emission SEM-EDXS

Abstract

A details field and microscopic characteristics of different types of granite stones were discussed to evaluate the relationship between surface microstructure and its chemical composition. Five types of silica-based granite stones namely, Viscon white (43.1%), African lilac (40%), Barley white (38.6%), Melaka rose (27.8%) and Black galaxy (24.7%) were considered in the study. The study includes the characterization of surface pattern microstructure and its chemical composition of the granite stones with a field emission scanning electron microscope that is typically equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (FESEM-EDXS). The technique of using FESEM –EDXS analysis has a vital role in the quality analysis of solid samples. It is worth mentioning that the analyzed granite stones provided in this study presented high content of SiO2 (silica) as the main compound. Other elements found such as Al and Fe also have their role in granite stone’s physical characteristics. Therefore, the study has presented an insightful view of granite stones specialty and is in much demand on its physical and chemical understanding as well as its texture properties.