Physical and Mechanical Properties of Artificial Stone Produced with Granite Waste and Vegetable Polyurethane

Abstract

The use of ornamental stones waste incorporated in resin to produce artificial stone has been an interesting alternative to reduce the increasing amount of discarded residue in the environment; in addition, it is technically and economically viable. This research aims at producing artificial stone from 85 wt% of granite waste incorporated in 15 wt% of vegetable polyurethane to be used in the construction industry. Initially, the best particle size composition of the residue was determined in order to better pack the particles. The vacuum vibro compression was used for the production of artificial stone plates. The study evaluated the mechanical and physical properties of the produced artificial stone as well as of the natural ornamental stone, granite. The artificial material using granite showed superior properties when compared to natural granite. The values of density, water absorption, and apparent porosity were, 2.24 g/cm3, 0.19%, 0.42%, respectively. The flexural strength obtained by the rupture stress was 18 MPa. The results in tests are within the standard expected range, and show the good performance of the artificial stone.