Composite materials designed for use in countertops, flooring, and other surfaces that are manufactured without the inclusion of crystalline silica. This innovation addresses significant health concerns associated with silica exposure during the fabrication and installation processes.
Health Implications of Crystalline Silica
Crystalline silica, commonly found in materials like quartz, granite, and certain engineered stones, poses health risks when inhaled as fine dust during cutting, grinding, or polishing. Prolonged exposure can lead to silicosis, a serious lung disease, as well as other respiratory issues. To mitigate these risks, zero silica engineered stones have been developed.
Composition of Zero Silica Engineered Stone
These materials are crafted using alternative components that eliminate crystalline silica content. For instance, some products utilize a blend of natural minerals and high-performance acrylic resins. Durasein solid surface materials, for example, are composed of two-thirds natural minerals and one-third acrylic resin and pigments, with no added crystalline silica.
Other manufacturers have developed proprietary mineral formulas to achieve a silica-free composition. Lapitec®, for instance, has patented a mineral formula resulting in a material entirely free of crystalline silica.
Advantages of Zero Silica Engineered Stone
- Health and Safety: The primary benefit is the elimination of health risks associated with silica dust exposure during fabrication and installation, promoting a safer environment for workers.
- Durability and Aesthetics: These materials maintain the desirable properties of traditional engineered stones, such as durability, non-porosity, and a wide range of design options. For example, Quantum Zero surfaces are formulated with 79-90% premium recycled glass and are free from crystalline silica, offering both safety and sustainability.
Composition of Zero Silica Engineered Stone
In response to increasing health regulations, p[articularly in Australia where there has been a complete ban on silica matrerial several companies have transitioned to producing zero silica engineered stones. Caesarstone®, for example, has introduced the Mineral™ collection, which is crystalline silica-free, adhering to strict safety standards.
Similarly, Granite Transformations has developed a Zero Crystalline Silica range, manufactured using recycled glass instead of traditional silica-containing materials, ensuring compliance with new safety regulations.
Conclusion
Zero silica engineered stones represent a significant advancement in building materials, prioritizing health and safety without compromising on quality or aesthetics. As awareness of silica-related health risks grows, the adoption of these innovative materials is likely to increase, setting new standards in the industry.
For the Australian market we will ONLY work with zero silica whereas the American market is still currently optional.
