Rosa Acastanhado Marble is a unique and distinctive type of marble that is quarried in the Matriz, Borba, and Estremoz regions of Portugal. It is well-regarded for its pale rose base accented by brownish-pink hues, giving it a warm, inviting appearance. This marble is primarily categorized within the pink color family and is favored for its aesthetics and versatility.

Physical and Mechanical Properties:

• Water Absorption: 0.09%
• Density: 2710 kg/m³
• Compressive Strength: 87.0 - 96.0 MPa
• Flexural Strength: Typically, the flexural strength of marble can vary significantly but often ranges around 10 to 15 MPa. Specific testing for this variety would provide exact numbers.
• Hardness: Typically falls around 3 on the Mohs scale, which is standard for most marble types.
• Porosity: Generally low, contributing to its durability and suitability for a variety of applications.
• Slip Resistance: Marble surfaces can be polished, honed, or rough; polished surfaces might be more slippery when wet compared to honed or rough finishes.

Chemical and Mineral Composition (% by weight):

• Calcium Carbonate (CaCO3): Predominantly composed of calcium carbonate; it usually comprises over 90% of marble.
• Other Minerals: Small amounts of minerals such as quartz, mica, and iron oxides that contribute to its color and pattern variations. Precise compositions will depend on specific quarry batches.

Usage:

• Interior Applications: Excellent for flooring, wall cladding, bathroom vanities, kitchen countertops, staircases, and decorative elements.
• Exterior Applications: Can be used in exterior cladding and architectural elements, though polishing may be less durable in exterior conditions without proper protection.

Maintenance:

• Regular Cleaning: Use pH-neutral cleaners and avoid acidic or abrasive substances to maintain surface integrity.
• Sealing: Periodically seal to protect against stains, especially in high-use areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Cutting Sizes (cm):

• Standard slab sizes can vary but are often found in dimensions suitable for flooring and countertops, such as 2 cm or 3 cm thickness.
• Custom sizes can be made to order depending on project needs and quarry capabilities.

Surface Finish Options:

• Polished: High gloss finish which highlights the marble’s colors and patterns. Best for indoor, low-traffic areas.
• Honed: Smooth but not glossy, providing a more matte finish that is less slippery.
• Brushed: Textured finish that enhances slip resistance, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
• Sandblasted: Rough texture for slip resistance, often used for outdoor applications.
• Bush-hammered: Distressed/textured finish which is very slip-resistant, often used in outdoor paving or heavily trafficked areas.

Overall, Rosa Acastanhado Marble is a visually splendid option suitable for various applications, combining aesthetic appeal with functional performance criteria.