This book offers a comprehensive review devoted exclusively to slate as dimension stone. Beginning with a description of the slate as dimension stone, the book describes the origin of slate and related geological phenomena. It thoroughly explains key data acquisition methods and techniques, which are accompanied by extensive data. In turn, slate standards are introduced and compared with regard to their importance for product quality. The book covers in detail the specific petrographical, fabric, strength, physical properties and weathering behaviour of slates. The chapter on mining and production provides an overview of the different forms of exploitation and related geotechnical aspects, together with production and workflow design, from the beginning to the final product. The second part comprises a thorough description of worldwide slate deposits and their geology, properties and appearance as well as a brief introduction of the history. Given its scope and accessible format, the book represents an essential guide for scientists, engineers, and professionals in geology, conservation science, architecture, and mining, as well as readers who are active in the slate industry.

In the Indian context.

This volume brings together papers from the multidisciplinary Dimension Stone 2004 Conference, held in Prague. Looking at all aspects of this useful and attractive building material, experts from many fields of research offer their perspectives from geology, rock mechanics, geotechnics, the stone extractive industry, restoration work and architecture. The result is a wide-ranging and practical handbook for geologists, engineers and architects covering: - geological studies of traditional local stone types - advanced rock fabric and rock mechanics studies applied to dimension stone research - application of dimension stone databases for historical research and for stone marketing - GIS application to quarry planning - aspects of dimension stone deterioration - bowing of natural stone cladding and prevention - processing and benefits of waste from the stone industry.

Stone cladding preconstruction evaluation. Stone weathering and durability. Design of stone cladding systems. Investigation and restoration of existing stone cladding systems.