Mineral composite is a synthetic material made from natural minerals and artificial binders. The combination of mineral fillers and polymer binders results in a versatile, durable, and visually appealing material that is used in various areas of architecture, interior design, and furniture production. Mineral composites are characterized by their high functionality, resilience, and aesthetic versatility.
Mineral Fillers: Inorganic materials such as aluminosilicates (e.g., aluminum hydroxide) or quartz and marble powder are commonly used. These contribute to the high density and strength of the material.
Polymer Binders: Acrylic resins or polyester resins are used as binders to connect the mineral fillers and stabilize the structure of the material.
Additives: In some cases, dyes or other additives are used to optimize the appearance and specific properties (e.g., for UV stability or special surface textures).
Properties of Mineral Composites:
Mineral-based materials offer numerous advantageous properties that make them suitable for various applications:
High Strength: Mineral composites are very robust and resistant to mechanical stresses. They are insensitive to impacts and scratches and can also withstand high temperatures without deforming or losing functionality.
Durability: Due to their stable composition, mineral composites are very durable. They are resistant to weathering, UV radiation, moisture, and chemical influences.
Water Resistance: Mineral composites are water-repellent and pore-free, making them particularly suitable for applications in damp areas (e.g., bathrooms). Moisture cannot penetrate the material, preventing mold formation and discoloration.
Hygienic and Easy to Maintain: As mineral composites have a pore-free surface, they are particularly easy to clean and hygienic. Bacteria and germs have no place to settle, making them ideal for kitchen and sanitary applications.
Aesthetic Variety: Mineral composites are available in a wide range of colors and surface textures. They can be molded into almost any desired shape, making them a flexible material for modern, customized designs.
Good Processing Properties: Mineral composites are easy to process – they can be cut, milled, sanded, and polished – allowing for high precision in the production of shapes, edges, and surfaces.
Environmental Friendliness: Mineral composites are made from natural, mostly non-toxic materials. They are generally recyclable, making them a more environmentally friendly alternative to other plastics and surface materials.
Seamless Processing: Mineral composites can be processed without joints, allowing for a homogeneous surface with no visible transitions between individual elements. This contributes to aesthetics and makes cleaning easier.
Printability: Mineral composites can be printed effortlessly with excellent results. With the wide variety of available décors and designs, true masterpieces can be created in combination with UV printing technology.
Manufacturers of such mineral composite boards can include:
Corian® by DuPont, Hi-Macs® by LG Hausys, Staron® by Lotte Chemical, Krion® by Porcelanosa, Hanex® by Hyundai, Avonite® by Aristech, VARICOR®, Silestone® Rocell® Solid Surface, Misterr (Misterio), Wilsonart® Solid Surface