100% silica free
Bioquartz® Benefits Fabricators
BioQuartz® for stunning, durable surfaces that protect the health of the fabricators who work with them
BioQuartz® Introduces a Silica-Free Engineered Stone Alternative
Breton S.p.A. has developed a new material called BioQuartz® that could transform the stone fabrication industry by eliminating exposure to crystalline silica while retaining the properties of traditional stone surfaces.
The innovation comes at a time when the stone fabrication industry is facing increasing pressure from regulators and growing concerns about worker safety related to silica exposure. BioQuartz® is created through a pyrolytic transformation process that heats siliceous and feldspar sands to approximately 1500°C, resulting in a material that contains no crystalline silica.
Existing fabrication equipment
The new material can be used with existing stone fabrication equipment and processes and requires no changes to vacuum vibrocompression systems or tooling. It behaves similarly to traditional quartz during cutting and polishing operations, allowing fabricators to maintain their current production processes while eliminating the risk of silica exposure.
Cost Benefits
BioQuartz® offers potential cost benefits by reducing the expenses associated with dust monitoring systems, personal protective equipment and regulatory compliance measures. Using local sand deposits instead of transported stone slabs can also reduce transportation costs.
In terms of performance, BioQuartz® has a consistent density and flexural strength comparable to traditional materials. In addition, it offers enhanced design possibilities, including the ability to achieve super white and semi-transparent effects without quantity limitations — a property that is traditionally difficult to achieve with conventional materials.
Environmental Benefits
The material offers environmental benefits as it supports the principles of the circular economy. Processing residues can be reintegrated into the production cycle, reducing waste and supporting sustainability initiatives.
By using local materials, the environmental impact associated with transporting stone slabs over long distances is further reduced. While the transition to BioQuartz® requires worker training and updating quality control procedures, the material is compatible with existing stone fabrication equipment.
This compatibility aims to minimize disruption during implementation while addressing growing regulatory pressures and increasing consumer awareness of health and environmental issues.
Best of Both Worlds
The development of BioQuartz® represents a significant shift in the stone fabrication industry's approach to worker safety and environmental responsibility. As silica exposure regulations continue to evolve, this innovation offers a way for fabricators to maintain production quality while eliminating the health risks associated with silica.
Consistency
Continuous Pattern
No vein matching or bookmatching. BioQuartz® is engineered stone that continues with a natural pattern...seamlessly.
beauty
High Resolution
Industry-leading resolution at 800 dpi gives enormous depth and eye catching authenticity with 100% flow through.
environment
Environmentally Friendly
100% Silica Free eliminates the threat of silicosis, is manufactured with natural minerals and a recycled materials process.
Slim contour
Thin Applications
For walls and backgrounds, thin applications provide contemporary design with 1/8" thickness with zero breakage.
technology leadership
Italian Design
BioQuartz® is made by Breton, the world leader in engineered stone technology.
Manufactured at home
Made in the USA
Manufactured in the US for quality control and access to local markets.