Limestone

Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed largely of the mineral calcite. Limestone is less resistant than most igneous rocks, but more resistant than most other sedimentary rocks. Limestone is readily available and relatively easy to cut into blocks or more elaborate carving. It is also long-lasting and stands up well to exposure.




Physically, Limestones are Quite impervious, Hard, Compact, fine to very fine grained calcareous rocks of sedimentary nature.

Hardness 3 to 4 on Moh's Scale
Density 2.5 to 2.7 Kg/cm3
Compressive Strength 60-170 N/mm2
Water Absorption Less than 1%
Porosity Quite low
Weather Impact Resistant


Chemically, they are calcareous rocks principally of calcic minerals with minor amounts of alumina, ferric & alkaline oxides.

Lime (CaO) 38-42%
Silica (SiO2) 15-18%
Alumina (Al2O3) 3-5%
MgO 0.5 to 3%
FeO + Fe2O3 1-1.5%
Alkalies 1-1.5%
Loss On Ignition (LOI) 30-32%