Blisworth Stone, also known as Blisworth Limestone, is a distinguished natural stone prominent for its aesthetic appeal and structural qualities. Below is a detailed description of its properties, composition, and uses:

Physical and Mechanical Properties:

• Water Absorption: Typically low, generally around 2.5 - 3.8 %, which contributes to its durability and suitability for external applications.
• Density: Approximately 2,480 – 2,560 kg/m³, indicating its solid and robust nature.
• Flexural Strength: It often ranges from 4.5 to 6.8 MPa, enabling its use in load-bearing applications.
• Compressive Strength: Generally found in the range of 38 to 47 MPa, suggesting its strong resistance to pressure.
• Hardness: Between 3 and 4 on the Mohs scale, reflecting moderate hardness suitable for various applications.
• Porosity: Typically low, ranging from 5 to 10%, contributing to its weather resistance and durability.
• Slip Resistance: Good, particularly when textured, making it suitable for flooring and outdoor pavements.

Chemical and Mineral Composition (% by weight):

• Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃): Predominantly around 90%, the main component of limestone.
• Silica (SiO₂): Approximately 2-5%, contributing to the stone's hardness and weatherability.
• Alumina (Al₂O₃): About 1-3%, affecting the stone’s durability and color.
• Iron Oxides (Fe₂O₃): Around 0.5-2%, which may impart slight color variations.
• Other Trace Minerals: Make up the remainder, contributing to the stone's unique characteristics.

Usage:

• Construction: Widely used in building facades, interior walls, and flooring due to its appealing aesthetic and durability.
• Landscaping: Employed in paving, stone walls, and garden features for its natural look.
• Restoration: Suitable for restoration projects, particularly those requiring stone similar to historical structures.
• Decorative Elements: Used for columns, balustrades, and other architectural features.

Maintenance:

• Regular cleaning with pH-neutral cleaners is recommended to maintain its appearance.
• Occasional sealing may be required to enhance its longevity and resistance to staining.

Cutting Sizes (cm) and Available Common Surface Finish Options:

Cutting Sizes: Commonly cut into tiles and slabs with typical dimensions ranging from 30x30 cm to 60x120 cm, depending on the application.

Surface Finish Options:

• Honed: Smooth and matte, ideal for indoor applications.
• Polished: Gives a glossy finish, enhancing color and pattern, suitable for interiors.
• Brushed: Offers a textured surface, providing slip resistance.
• Bush-Hammered: Rough texture, ideal for non-slip surfaces and outdoor use.
• Sandblasted: Lightly textured and retains a natural look, perfect for exteriors.

Blisworth Stone is appreciated for its distinctive aesthetic features and robust properties, making it a preferred material in various architectural and design applications. Its effective quarrying and processing at the Churchfield Farm site ensure the continuation of its legacy in modern construction and design.