Process for artificially ageing blocks

An apparatus for artificially ageing blocks, in particular concrete blocks, vitrified bricks and natural stones, has an underlying surface, on which the blocks can be placed in such a way that the surface to be worked and the adjoining edges are exposed. Provided here are essentially freely movable distressing bodies for applying to the surface to be worked and the adjoining edges. Also provided is a vibration device, to set the blocks and the distressing bodies in motion in relation to one another in such a way that the distressing bodies act on the surface and the exposed edges of the blocks. A limiting device restricts the lateral or horizontal movement of the distressing bodies essentially to the surface of the blocks. Further provided is an extraction device which extracts dust and/or fragments during the distressing action of the distressing bodies, the extraction device having a suction region which at least almost encloses the surface of the blocks to be worked.