Stone

This useful general survey describes the varieties and uses of stone as a building material - whether cut or field-stone - and how to extract, work and use it. A new chapter on stone and the environment emphasizes the importance of planning, waste recycling and quarry rehabilitation as part of the extraction process. There is a new appendix outlining procedures for testing stone''s flexural and compressive strength and discussing the importance of slip resistance.

Significant technological developments since the mid 1980s have made possible
vast increases in the volume and efficiency of stone working. Research into waste
disposal and conversion has advanced considerably, as well as dust and noise
reduction, and quarry rehabilitation. Yet, ignoring these technological advances, it
remains possible to build a simple dwelling without tools, from field-stones or other
rocks of the right shape. With a few simple and durable tools and with this basic
knowledge of stone, its working and applications, far more is possible.

This well-established introduction to stone provides a link between the basics and
high-tech developments, and presents a clear guide for all interested in finding out
more about this widely available material - whether for profit, for development or
for other local use.

Bridging the gap between the geologist and the stone user and designer (whether
architect or ''do-it-yourselfer''), the book describes the benefits of stone, its great
variety and versatility, methods of extraction and working, and production and
working prospects.

This second edition contains a new chapter on stone and the environment, which
emphasizes the importance of planning, waste recycling, and quarry rehabilitation
as part of the extraction process. There is also a Bibliography, and a new Appendix
outlining procedures for testing stone''s flexural and compressive strength and
discussing the importance of slip resistance. New photographs and illustrations
complement the new material.