Atlas index
Block · 10–30 mm
Stone — indicative fig. M·113

Dense volcanic basalt with proven 150+ year performance in Australian conditions. Non-combustible, highly durable stone suitable for building envelopes, paving and architectural features.

01 Physical

Density 2620kg/m³
Specific gravity 2.62
Porosity 3.2%
Water absorption 1.6%
Hardness 6.5
UV resistance Excellent
Chemical resistance Good - avoid acids
pH tolerance 6-10
Surface roughness 25µm

02 Mechanical

Tensile strength 14.5MPa
Compressive strength 126MPa
Flexural strength 15.3MPa
Shear strength 22MPa
Poisson's ratio 0.25
Impact resistance High
Creep resistance Excellent

03 Thermal

Thermal conductivity 2.25W/m·K
Specific heat 900J/kg·K
Thermal expansion 0.000008×10⁻⁶/°C

04 Compliance & Fire First question

Combustibility class Non-combustible
Fire resistance level Non-combustible
Ignition temp 1100°C
Flame spread index 0
Smoke dev. index 0
Heat release rate 0

05 Sustainability & Health

Embodied carbon 7.8
Carbon footprint 0.15
Embodied energy 2.5MJ/kg
Water footprint 50L/kg
Recyclability 100%
Recycled content 0%
Renewable content 0%
Circular score 8
VOC emissions 0
Toxicity rating Non-toxic
LEED contribution 2

06 Durability · Cost · Logistics

Expected lifespan 75-150+ years
Maintenance interval Annual sealing, 5-year deep clean
Warranty period Materials only - no defects
Material cost (range) $66-$140/m²
Lead time 2-4 weeks standard, stock items available
Lifecycle cost $15/m²/year
Annual maintenance $5-$10/m²
Market availability Good - multiple Victorian suppliers

07 Assessment

Advantages

  • Non-combustible material suitable for BAL-FZ zones
  • 100+ year proven service life in Australian conditions
  • Low maintenance requirements with annual sealing
  • Develops attractive natural patina over time
  • Locally sourced from Victorian quarries
  • 100% recyclable and reusable at end of life
  • Excellent slip resistance (P2/R10 rating)
  • High compressive strength (126 MPa dry)
  • Low water absorption (1.4-1.83%)
  • Resistant to freeze-thaw cycles

Constraints

  • High thermal conductivity requiring supplementary insulation
  • Minimal thermal resistance (R-value 0.008-0.013 at 20mm)
  • Heavy material (52 kg/m² at 20mm) requiring mechanical handling
  • Requires periodic sealing for honed finishes
  • No Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) available
  • High installation cost ($230-310/m²)
  • Requires skilled stonemason for installation
  • Limited acoustic insulation properties
  • Susceptible to acid etching
  • Thermal movement requires expansion joints

08 Applications

A1 Building cladding and facade systems
A2 Wall panels and architectural features
A3 External and internal paving
A4 Heritage restoration projects
A5 Contemporary building envelopes
A6 Landscape and hardscaping elements
A7 Pool surrounds and water features
A8 Steps, kerbs and street furniture

09 Sources & Standards

Sources pending — citations for this material are not yet recorded. Verify all figures against manufacturer data and current standards before specifying.

MATERIALS ATLAS · CL·AD M·113 · data indicative — verify per project