Specifications:
• Composition:
• Mainly composed of silica (45-55%), with significant amounts of iron oxide (FeO), magnesium oxide (MgO), and smaller amounts of aluminum oxide (Al2O3)
• Rich in minerals such as plagioclase feldspar, pyroxenes, and olivine
• Color: Typically ranges from dark grey to black, with variations in mineral content
• Texture: Fine-grained, due to the rapid cooling of lava; may appear vesicular (bubbly) or dense
• Density: Generally between 2.8 to 3.0 g/cm³
• Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and resistant to wear
• Porosity: Typically low, contributing to its strength and resilience in various environments
• Types:
• Extrusive Basalt: Formed from lava that cools quickly on the Earth’s surface
• Intrusive Basalt: Forms from magma that cools more slowly below the surface, often referred to as gabbro
• Applications:
• Construction: Used in road base material, concrete aggregate, and as crushed stone for building foundations, drainage systems, and landscaping
• Stone Veneer & Tiles: Cut into slabs and tiles for use in facades, countertops, and flooring
• Landscaping: Commonly used for decorative features, such as rock gardens, walls, and pathways
• Railroad Ballast: Used as base material for supporting railroad tracks
• Refractory Materials: Basalt is used for high-temperature applications due to its resistance to heat
• Carbon Sequestration: Can be used in environmental efforts to capture carbon dioxide through mineral carbonation processes