Mechanical and physical investigation of an artificial stone produced with granite residue and epoxy resin

The incorporation of ornamental stones residues to a polymer resin to produce artificial stone is an alternative to reducing the environmental impacts of inadequate waste disposal; it also represents a technically viable method. The objective of study was to develop an artificial granitic stone (AGS) using 85% in mass of granite agglutinated by 15% epoxy resin, through a vacuum, vibration and compression process. The artificial stone presented superior properties when compared with the natural granite, it had satisfactory mechanical and physical properties, resistant to temperature oscillations, to impact and wear, therefore suitable for applications for flooring subject to instantaneous tension and high-traffic.