Quarried primarily in Fujian Province, China, Nero Kempo Basalt (also marketed as Nero Basalto or Basalt Black) is a fine-grained, dense, and durable charcoal black volcanic stone widely used in modern architectural applications due to its minimalistic appearance and structural integrity.

Appearance & Texture

• Color: Charcoal to deep black (uniform appearance)
• Grain: Very fine-grained crystalline matrix (sub-millimeter scale)
• Texture: Homogeneous and smooth
• Pattern: Mostly uniform; may include subtle vesicular (pores) textures or tiny specks depending on the block
• Visual Tone: Matte to slightly reflective depending on finish

Physical & Mechanical

• Density .... 2880 – 2950 kg/m³ (2.88 – 2.95 g/cm³)
• Water Absorption .... 0.3 – 0.5% by weight
• Porosity .... <1% (very low, non-porous)
• Compressive Strength .... 160 – 180 MPa
• Flexural Strength .... 14 – 18 MPa
• Abrasion Resistance .... High (ASTM C241 ≤ 20 mm)
• Hardness (Mohs) .... 6 – 7

Slip Resistance (DIN 51130)

• Flamed/Brushed: R11
• Honed: R9
• Sandblasted: R12

Chemical Composition (% by weight)

• Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂) .... 47–52%
• Aluminum Oxide (Al₂O₃) .... 14–17%
• Iron Oxide (Fe₂O₃) .... 8–11%
• Calcium Oxide (CaO) .... 8–10%
• Magnesium Oxide (MgO) .... 5–7%
• Potassium Oxide (K₂O) .... 1–2%
• Sodium Oxide (Na₂O) .... 2–3%
• Titanium Oxide (TiO₂) .... 1% or less

Mineralogical Composition

• Plagioclase Feldspar (Labradorite/Anorthite) – ~40%
• Pyroxene (Augite) – ~25%
• Olivine – ~10%
• Magnetite and Ilmenite (iron-titanium oxides) – ~5–7%
• Minor Quartz/Glassy Matrix – Trace

Standard Cutting Sizes (cm)

Tiles: 30×30, 30×60, 40×40, 60×60, 60×90, 60×120

Slabs:

• Standard thicknesses: 2 cm and 3 cm
• Custom sizes for countertops, stairs, facades
• Cut-to-size elements: Stair treads, risers, coping, lintels, sills, ventilated facade panels

Surface Finish Options

• Honed: Smooth matte, deep charcoal tone, ideal for interiors
• Polished: Rare, but possible for decorative use; slightly reflective
• Flamed: Textured anti-slip finish, enhances light gray hues
• Brushed: Soft touch, suitable for indoor floors
• Sandblasted: Uniform anti-slip surface with lightened tone
• Bush-hammered: Rugged, high-slip resistance for exteriors
• Leathered: Satin matte with tactile texture
• Split-face/Natural: Rustic wall cladding or landscape stone

Applications & Usage

• Interior: Floor and wall tiles, vanity tops, countertops, stairs
• Exterior: Façades, pavers, cladding, pool surrounds, coping, benches
• Urban Design: Street furniture, fountains, monuments
• Landscaping: Pathways, edging, retaining walls
• Ventilated Facades: Thanks to low water absorption and high strength
• High-Traffic Areas: Excellent abrasion and weather resistance

Maintenance Guidelines

• Routine Cleaning: Mild neutral detergent with water
• Avoid Acids: Acidic or highly alkaline cleaners may etch the stone
• Sealing: Optional due to low porosity, but enhances color and ease of cleaning
• Stain Prevention: Promptly remove oil or grease in exterior settings
• Indoor Use: Occasional resealing in bathrooms or kitchens if honed

Performance Summary

Weather Resistance .... Excellent (freeze/thaw stable)

Durability .... Very High

Slip Resistance .... High (with flamed or brushed finishes)

Aesthetic Versatility .... High (modern, minimal, luxurious)

Sustainability .... Long lifecycle, recyclable