Characterization of artificial stone developed with granite waste and glass waste in epoxy matrix

Abstract

The production of artificial stone through the incorporation of granite and glass waste into an epoxy resin matrix is not only an ecological alternative capable of reducing the environmental impacts caused by improper disposal of these wastes but it is also technically satisfactory, as it adds economic value and optimizes the characteristics of the artificial stone compared to natural stone. The goal of this research was to produce and evaluate the properties of artificial stone plates manufactured using vibration, compression, and vacuum methodology. Plates were produced with 15% epoxy resin by weight, and aggregates in the proportions of 50% Ocre Itabira gray granite waste and 50% colorless tempered glass waste. During production, the materials were processed under a compaction pressure of 3.68 MPa for 20 min at 90 °C. The following characterization tests were conducted: density, apparent porosity, water absorption, three-point flexural strength, impact resistance, abrasive wear, staining, chemical attack, durability test through wetting and drying cycles, and microstructural analysis. The material achieved a water absorption of 0.13 ± 0.03%, flexural strength of 32.77 ± 3.29 MPa, rupture height of 0.45 ± 0.12 m, and abrasive wear of 1.65 ± 0.02 mm. It demonstrated good interfacial adhesion in the microstructural analysis and exhibited resistance to staining, chemical attack, and durability testing through wet-dry cycles. Therefore, the technical feasibility of the produced material was confirmed, with results consistent with previous studies in the field, demonstrating resistance to the conducted tests and indicating its potential application in the construction industry.

Keywords

• Artificial stone
• Granite waste
• Glass waste
• Epoxy resin