Spencer R. Higgins, Architect Incorporated

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Evaluation of Alternative "Red Sunset" Sandstone

Stone Testing

This Stone Testing Project was awarded to ArconTEST Incorporated and initiated in accordance with the proposal dated September 10, 2024. The project was prepared for Group ROC Concept with the primary objective of providing characterization testing for the Spanish red sandstone marketed as "Red Sunset" by Marmoles Moratonas.

The "Red Sunset" material is under consideration as a possible substitute for the Callow Hill red-brown sandstone, which is supplied by Black Mountain Quarries in the UK. The final report includes comparative data on Callow Hill and two brown Nova Scotia sandstones.

The rough blocks for this project were provided by Marmoles Moratonas. The testing specimens were cut to size by Marmoles Moratonas and subsequently provided through Group ROC Concept. A summary of the material characterization is available in the final report, with detailed reports for every individual test appended to the document.

Test procedures were carried out in the ArconTEST in-house architectural conservation laboratory on each stone type including:

• Petrographic Analysis (ASTM C-1721)

• X-ray Diffraction (Standard Methodology to Determine the Chemical Composition)

• Compressive Strength (ASTM C-170)

• Modulus of Rupture (ASTM C-99)

• Flexural Strength (ASTM C-880)

• Porosity (BR 141)

• Saturation Co-efficient (BR 141)

• Absorption and Bulk Specific Gravity (ASTM C-97)

• Apparent Density (BR 141)

• Acid Immersion (BR 141)

• Resistance to Salt Crystalization (BS EN 12370 / ASTM C-88)

• Unidirectional Freeze-thaw Testing (BS EN 772-22 and prEN 459-Part 22)

John River, Red Sunset and Callow Hill sandstones in top light
(ATI 2024)

Red Sunset sandstone specimens after 100-cycles of freeze-thaw exposure.
(ATI 2024)