Limestone Tile NJ
Limestone Tile
Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed largely of the mineral
calcite. Limestone often contains variable amounts of silica in the
form of
chert or flint, as well as varying amounts of clay, silt and
sand as disseminations or layers within the rock. The primary source
of the calcite in limestone is most commonly marine organisms. These
organisms secrete shells that settle out of the water column and are
deposited on ocean floors as pelagic ooze. Secondary calcite may
also be deposited by supersaturated meteoric waters (groundwater
that precipitates the material in caves). This produces stalagmites
and stalactites. Limestone makes up about 10 percent of the total
volume of all sedimentary rocks.
Pure limestone is white or almost white. Because of impurities, such
as clay, sand, organic remains, iron oxide and other materials, most
limestone exhibit different colors, especially on weathered
surfaces. Limestone may be crystalline, granular, or massive,
depending on the method of formation.
Limestone is partially soluble, especially in acid, and therefore
forms many erosion landforms. Limestone is less resistant than most
igneous rocks, but more resistant than most other sedimentary rocks.
Bands of limestone emerge from the Earth's surface in often
spectacular rocky outcrops and islands.
Limestone is especially popular in architecture, and many landmarks
around the world, especially in North America and Europe, are made
primarily of the material. So many buildings in Kingston, Ontario,
Canada were constructed from it, that it was nicknamed the
'Limestone City'. 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. However, it is a very
heavy material, making it impractical for tall buildings. It is also
quite expensive. Though the limestone used for construction is good
for humid climates, it is vulnerable to acids, making acid rain a
problem when it occurs in places where limestone is used
extensively. The acids in the water can wear away the details of
statues and other art.
Limestone is used as a facade on some skyscrapers, but only in thin
plates for covering rather than solid blocks. In the United States,
Indiana has long been noted as a source of high quality quarried
building Indiana limestone, while many famous buildings in London
are built from Portland limestone. Portland stone is limestone from
the Jurassic period quarried on the Isle of Portland, Dorset. It has
been used extensively throughout the UK, notably in the rebuilding
of London after the Great Fire. It is exported to many countries,
and was also used in the United Nations building in New York.
Though the limestone used for construction is good for humid
climates, it is vulnerable to acids, making acid rain a problem when
it occurs in places where limestone is used extensively. The acids
in the water can wear away the details of statues and other art.
 
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