Limestone is calcareous sedimentary rocks formed at the bottom of lakes and seas with the accumulation of shells, bones and other calcium rich goods. It is composed of calcite (CaCO3). The organic matter upon which it settles in lakes or seas, are preserved as fossils. Over thousands and millions of years, layer after layer is built up adding weight. The heat and pressure causes chemical reaction at the bottom and the sediments turn into solid stone, the limestone.
The rock which contain more than 95% of calcium carbonate is known as high-calcium limestone. Recrystallised limestone takes good polish and is usually used as decorative and building stone.
A part of calcium molecules if being replaced by magnesium, it is known as magnesium lime stone or dolomite limestone.
Limestone that will take a polish are considered marbles by most people, but technically, if there are still shells visible or the structure is not crystalline, it is still a limestone.
Physical Properties of Limestone
Hardness 3 to 4 on Moh's Scale
Density 2.5 to 2.65 Kg/m3
Compressive Strength 1800 to 2100 Kg/cm2
Water Absorption Less than 1%
Porosity Quite low
Weather Impact Resistant
Chemical Properties of Limestone
Lime (CaO) 38-42%
Silica (SiO2) 20-25%
Alumina (Al2O3) 2-4%
Other Oxides like Na, Mg 1.5 to 2.5%
Loss On Ignition (LOI) 30-32%
Note :- Limestone, like marble and other calcareous stones, are referred to as acid sensitive. Calcareous stones are readily dissolved in acid, therefore acidic products should not be used on limestone and marbles.
Uses of Limestone
Ocurrances of Limestone
Texas Lampasas River area
India Khasi, Jayantia and Garo Hills of Meghalaya
Satna limstone belt, Madhya Pradesh
United Kingdom United Kingdom Alston, Cumbria
Doncaster, South Yorkshire
New Zealand Airedale Road Weston
Classifieds of Limestone Informations
Manufacturers, Exporters and Suppliers of marble stone, sandstone varieties, slate stone types, cobbles pebbles, quartzite, granite slabs, granite tiles, granite chips
Address: South Delhi Nehru Place Delhi
Phone : 91-011-22222222 Mobile : 999999
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