An Introduction to Natural Phyllite - Architectural Stone Hello, my name is …………………………….., I am the ………………………………………. For SSQ. Today’s seminar will be focusing on Natural Phyllite using SSQ’s Riverstone Phyllite as an example of the material. ACTION: RSM to explain the following: Lunch arrangements When he/she would like to accept questions (as they go along or at the end) That they will be issued with certificates as proof of attending the CPD

Who are SSQ & Riverstone? SSQ Group was founded in 1983 Producers and exporters of natural slate from Spain, Argentina and Brazil Specialists in finest quality imported slate & phyllite Market leader in UK; exports to Europe and worldwide Who are SSQ & Riverstone? Firstly we will start with a quick background of SSQ before I introduce the objectives and contents of this seminar; SSQ was founded by Mr Ahmed El-Helw, which has held his position as Chairman of the company for 25 years. SSQ have established themselves initially through the importation of natural roofing Slate from Spain. We have since focused on the quality materials and services, which meets SSQ’s high standards. SSQ have become a multinational company and can boast being the leader in the UK for natural Slate.

Who are SSQ and Riverstone? Riverstone Ltd (part of SSQ Group) was established in 2003 Recently expanded product portfolio to include full Riverstone Architectural range Due to quarry ownership we can always fulfill our promises and ensure high quality control procedures are in place Who are SSQ & Riverstone? Mr Ahmed El-Helw through SSQ has been trading in natural roofing Slate for over 20 years, and has always had the ambition of being a quarry owner himself. In 2003 he made this a reality with the purchase of a quarry in san Luis Argentina, which was the birth of Riverstone. The product portfolio is constantly growing, with applications for flooring, paving, cladding and also slab form. As you would imagine, as the quarry owners we have a lot of pressure at source, which carries a number of benefits such as a tight check on quality control. It also enables flexibility on what we can produce and maintain health and safety for all employees especially those working in the quarry.

Objectives To explain the formation and extraction of phyllite To demonstrate why phyllite can be an excellent alternative to slate To highlight why its properties make it suitable for architectural applications To help provide sufficient information to ensure problem free specifications using natural phyllite architectural and flooring products Objectives: The objectives of the seminar are the following: Action: Go through bullet points

Contents Introduction to phyllite – geology, extraction and source Advantages of phyllite and problems occurred using inferior products Natural phyllite testing & standards Natural stone comparison table Stone protection Contents We will be covering all the key points relevant to Natural Phyllite, and the seminar has been planned out as follows. Action: Go through bullet points

An Introduction to Natural phyllite Definition: “Phyllite is from scientific Latin and means ‘leaf-stone’ phyllite is a medium grey stone.” Phyllite is a metamorphic stone. Phyllite can be split by hand. Phyllite is formed from two other types of stone: slate and schist. Phyllite has a visible sheen owing to its exposure to extreme heat and pressure Phyllite tends to have a corrugated surface which can be polished to achieve a smooth surface. An Introduction To Natural Phyllite Action: Read definition Phyllite is a metamorphic rock – it is the same rock family as Slate and Marble. Phyllite is actually formed from the sediments of two main types of rock, these being Slate and Schist. When mixed together Phyllite is formed, which can be used for many types of applications ranging from the roof to the floor. Exposed to extreme heat and pressure, the result is a visible reflective sheen, which reacts to the light producing some stunning effects. Natural Phyllite tends to have a corrugated surface which can be polished to a smooth surface. A material of a lesser quality, such as Brazilian mustone/slate cannot be polished in this way. Probably a surprising element of Phyllite is the fact it can be split by hand, meaning that we can still use traditional methods to split our material for roofing purposes.

An introduction to natural phyllite Source: San Luis quarry located in Argentina Total ownership by SSQ Group. All quality control done by trusted methods at source. Formed over 600 million years ago. Shares many characteristics with Cornish slate due to the tectonic plate movements. An Introduction To Natural Phyllite Phyllite can be sourced from a limited number of country’s. The main suppliers extracting the stone are from Norway and the SSQ owned quarry in San Luis, Argentina. SSQ Group have total ownership of the Riverstone Phyllite quarry, so it is not affected by the influence of a partner, which is how many quarry’s operate. The quality control is undertaken by SSQ with the material being checked on both sides of the Atlantic. Formed over 600 million years ago, and has been used by the San Luis locals for centuries, similar to the way Cornish and Welsh Slate was used in the UK. Riverstone Phyllite shares many of its characteristics with UK indigenous Slate such as Delabole from Cornwall and Ffestiniog from Wales. This was possible due to the tectonic plate movements along time ago.

The formation of phyllite There are 3 key classifications of natural stone, each is formed in different ways and is comprised of different minerals. Metamorphic Rock Phyllite Rock that has been physically altered by heat and/or pressure; most commonly quartzite, slate, marble and phyllite. Sedimentary Rock Limestone Rock formed by the hardening of material deposited in some process; most commonly sandstone, shale, and limestone. The Formation of Phyllite There are 3 main members of the rock family used in the construction industry. Each is distinguished by its formation and minerals. Action: Read through each type of rock giving example’s of how it is used today. Igneous Rock Granite Formed when molten (melted) materials harden through crystallisation; most commonly granite and basalt.

The formation of phyllite Phyllite is a fine-grained metamorphic rock, formed from the compressive pressure from both the sea and the earth’s core. phyllite The Formation of Phyllite All rocks are formed under varying degrees of heat and pressure. The heat comes from the earth’s core and the pressure is from the sea. It is the variations in heat and pressure, which depicts the strength of the stone and its physical appearance. As you can see from the diagram, Phyllite is formed under the sea bed, however closer to the earth’s core than some other metamorphic rocks such as Slate. With the combination of high heat pressure & the fine grain of Phyllite, the result is a very dense material. Varying degrees of heat and pressure contribute to the stones formation and strength Due to the fine grain and high compression of phyllite, the result is a very dense stone

The extraction process Phyllite is always quarried from above and below the quartz vein. Quartz vein The Extraction Process Now we have covered the formation of Phyllite, we can now move on to the extraction. We extract out natural Phyllite in the exact same way we extract our natural Slate. Extraction is possible in a number of ways, one which is still in operation is to use dynamite. This is of course not the most efficient method based on the wastage and danger factor alone. The preferred method of SSQ is the use of a diamond wire. We extract natural Phyllite above and below the Quartz vein. This vein acts as a natural barrier, which the surrounding stone is compressed against. This ensures only the strongest and finest quality material is extracted for use. Why quarry around the quartz vein? 1. Acts as a compressive barrier 2. Ensures the highest quality of stone

The extraction process cont. The stone is extracted in steps using a diamond cutting wire. Quarry rock face The Extraction Process Even though the use of diamond wire and the necessary equipment to extract the stone is very expensive, it is the most cost effective and environmentally friendly way due to the precision it allows. The use of diamond wire enables us to extract the stone in steps, which is visible in the diagram. This keeps the material in manageable blocks and reduces the possibility of fractures occurring, which is more likely to happen if dynamite was used. Why quarry in steps? 1. Minimises wastage 2. No need to use explosives

Advantages of natural phyllite High density Very low porosity Durable Exceptional strength Versatile Minimum maintenance (once laid and sealed properly) Advantages of Natural Phyllite The focus now goes to come of the benefits of Phyllite. Just be aware that like all things there are bad examples of it, so these benefits are mainly relevant to Norwegian and Argentinean Phyllite, and I would read the test results before applying these benefits to Phyllite from other country’s. High density – The main benefit of the stone is the density. The high density means the stone is extremely strong, so can withstand a high degree of load bearing weight. Low porosity – Again stems from the density, Phyllite is so closely compacted together it simply does not allow water to penetrate the stone. Durable – Naturally a dense stone is durable and stands the test of time and wear for many years. Exceptional Strength – Stronger than granite (according to Barry Hunt of IBIS) Versatile – Besides natural Slate, it is one of the few materials you can use for the roof and the floor with confidence, on the roof. Minimum maintenance – As you would expect, this natural material takes care of itself. Depending on how you use it, it may only need the occasional cleaning.

Advantages of natural phyllite Non combustible Not susceptible to acid attack thus pollution resistant Natural product Long life expectancy Advantages of Natural Phyllite These are quite obvious advantages on this slide. Non combustible – Will not blow up or set on fire on its own accord Not susceptible to acid attack thus pollution resistant – Again this is attributable to the density and mineralogical properties of the stone. Natural product - It’s a sustainable natural material. (as long as the stone can be extracted from the vein) Long life expectancy – Its lasted 600 million years so a lifetime in someone's garden or on the roof is a walk in the park.

Problems from using an inferior natural stone to phyllite Can be poorly calibrated Can be poorly gauged Easily absorb stains Efflorescence (salt leaches from material) Rust (leaching pyrite) Problems from using an inferior natural stone to Phyllite The next two slides focus on potential problems, which may arise when use similar but interior material to Phyllite, an example being Brazilian and Chinese Slate… Can be poorly calibrated – Has a very uneven surface on both the top and bottom of the tile. Can be poorly gauged – Where one end is thicker than the other, will always cause problems when laying. Easily absorb stains – Less dense materials can soak up these stains like a sponge, having a permanent detrimental affect on the stone. However this point is not only applicable to interior stone as Marble and Granite to react very badly to acidic fluids such as orange juice, where Phyllite would remain unchanged. Efflorescence (salt leaches from the material) – This is visible white dots or patches on the stone. Rust (leaching pyrite) – All stone’s contain come level of pyrite, some visible, some not. However unless it has totally gone through its transformation, there is still the possibility of leaching. Essentially pyrite is lead, so once it starts to rust it is almost impossible to repair by any other method except replacing the effected tiles.

Problems from using an inferior natural stone to phyllite cont. Has negative reactions to the freeze-thaw cycle Limitation on surface finish (due to low density) May disintegrate (mineral properties react) May distort under intense heat Problems from using an inferior natural stone to Phyllite Doe’s not cope with freeze-thaw cycle – This is the constant expansion and contraction caused by variation in the weather. Low quality material allow the stone to absorb water and freeze within the stone and when it unfreezes the stone can break up Limitation on surface finish – This is a point I touched on earlier, due to some materials simply not being dense enough, it is almost impossible to produce a smooth polished finish as the stone will flake away. May disintegrate (mineral properties react) – Many natural stone’s contain calcite, which is basically chalk. If you have a very high content of calcite in the stone and it mixes with rain, there is the possibility that over time the material will break up and dissolve. May distort under intense heat – This is really only relevant to hot country’s but some natural stone can start to bend out of shape.

Testing & Standards 6 main types of tests for natural stone: Type: Density; Kg/m3 Description: Measured against water 1,000, higher the density the better. EU Test: BS EN 1936 Type: Water Absorption, % Description: Checks for water absorption in stone, lower is better. EU Test: BS EN 13755 Testing & Standards All respectable materials should have been subject to certain test to establish the quality and appropriateness of a material. For natural stone tiles there are 6 main types of test, following the slides depict each test and gives a brief description. Riverstone Phyllite has been tested to comply both with American and European legislation. Action: Read through each test type Type: Modulus of Rupture, MPa Description: Measures the maximum load the stone can withstand, higher is better. EU Test: BS EN 12372

Testing & Standards cont. 6 main types of tests for natural stone: Type: Abrasion Resistance Description: Represents the stone’s surface to wear, higher is better. EU Test: BS EN 14157 Type: Freeze Thaw Cycle, Mpa Description: Measures the effect of extreme changes in weather, higher is better. EU Test: BS EN 12371 Testing & Standards Action: Read through each test type Type: Slip Resistance Description: Tested in wet and dry conditions, higher is better. EU Test: BS EN 14231

Testing & Standards cont. Riverstone Test Results EU Equivalent Test Type Result (mean) BS EN 1936 Density, Kg/m3 2760 BS EN 13755 Water Absorption, % 0.49 BS EN 12372 Modulus of Rupture, Mpa 40.53 BS EN 14157 Abrasion Resistance 23.5 BS EN 12371 Freeze Thaw Cycle, Mpa 37.49 BS EN 14231 Slip Resistance: Honed (dry/wet) 63/32 Slip Resistance: Brushed Antic (dry/wet) 69/50 Testing & Standards Riverstone Phyllite has been tested to comply both with European and American legislation. This specific results for Riverstone Phyllite are displayed here, which are the ASTM results, which is a internationally recognised standard for natural stone flooring and cladding. Action: Read through each result. Tests have been conducted by Sandberg Consulting Engineers

Stone comparison table BSEN Test Riverstone Kirkstone Sea Green* Khatmia* Tropicale* Material Phyllite Slate Marble Granite Source Argentina UK Egypt S. Africa Density, Kg/m3 2760 NR 2690 2640 Water Absorption, % 0.49 2.25 0.35 0.11 Modulus of Rupture, Mpa 40.53 11.32 12.48 18.8 Abrasion Resistance, mm 23.5 12.2 17 13.2 Freeze Thaw Cycle, Mpa 37.49 Slip Reisitance Polished (dry/wet) 63/32 27 (wet) Slip Resistance Riven (dry/wet) 69/50 68 (wet) Stone Comparison Table This is an important slide as it shows how Phyllite can compare to similar used materials. There are a few points to look at here, points which really show Phyllite as the unique material it is. Firstly we can look at the Density result of 2775, as I mentioned before, density is basically the strength of the stone. So based on that rationale, the Riverstone Phyllite can be stronger than UK Slate, Egyptian Marble and South African Granite. Another important test is the Water Absorption with a result of 0.11, it provides the confidence to use Phyllite for worktops, as well as flooring & roofing. A test were Riverstone Phyllite excelled over comparable materials is the Modulus of Rupture, which is another test of strength and with a result of 89 it blows the rest out of the water. Abrasion Resistance is important but the result is pretty much the same for the tested stones. Slip Resistance is an integral element when dealing with natural stone flooring and paving. Phyllite definitely holds its own with some very sufficient results, making Phyllite suitable for the commercial market too. * Information has been taken from the corporate websites

Installation - flooring The main methods of fixing phyllite flooring are: Mortar (thick bed) method Fix the floor tiles in place with a concrete slurry mix Adhesive (thin bed) method Fix the floor tiles in place with a proprietary adhesive Grouting Tiles must be firmly set in the mortar or adhesive before commencing grouting. Specialist resin based and cement based grouts are available from a variety of suppliers Installation There are many different methods of installing flooring, so many that it would warrant a separate CPD to go through them, however the following points highlight the main methods and what to take into consideration Mortar (thick bed) method – this method uses a concrete slurry mix that the tiles are placed onto and left to set Adhesive (thin bed) method – this method uses an adhesive that is much thinner, that the tiles are laid on and left to set Ensure that the adhesive or mortar is firmly set before grouting There are many different types of grouting ranging from resin based to cement based, so make sure you research how they are likely to appear if you have a specific overall finished look in mind. Phyllite retains heat well so is suitable for use with under floor heating – however you will need to check which type of installation would be most appropriate. Under floor heating Phyllite retains heat well and is suitable for use with under floor heating. 20

Installation - cladding There are various fixing methods depending on where the cladding is being applied and the density of the pieces of phyllite For very dense phyllite cladding the main considerations are: DEAD LOADS – actual weight of the stonework. APPLIED LOADS – wind pressure & suction, window cleaning equipment & any thermal or structural movements that may occur For phyllite used as thin cladding, there are various fixing methods. It is best to check BS 8298: 1994 (Code of practice for design and installation of natural stone cladding or lining) before a final selection is made. Fixing systems advice and suppliers: Amare Stone - http://amarestone.com Halfen Limited - http://www.halfen.co.uk/ Ancon Building Products - http://www.ancon.co.uk/ Installation 21

Protection (Stone Sealing) Helps to prolong the life of the stone; Helps prevent marks and scratches Protects against damaging chemicals An example of a sealed floor is below: Protection (Stone Sealing) With all natural stone’s it is very important that the stone is protected against the elements. A stone sealer has two main benefits: Helps prevent marks and scratches – Important for heavy foot traffic area’s Protects against damaging chemicals – Such as orange juice or other chemicals such as bleach and detergents. *Another important factor to take into account is that some sealers will alter the colour of the stone e.g., make’s it darker. It is always recommended that you test the sealer on a sample before applying to the main area. * Some stone sealers will alter the colour of the stone e.g, make it darker. It is always recommended that you test the sealer on a sample first or seek advice from the seller. There are many sealants ranging from water to oil based giving matt and gloss finishes. An example of a gloss finish sealant is LITHOFIN.

Installation – British Standard References Wall and floor tiling BS 5385 - Wall and Floor Tiling. Code of practice for design and installation BS 8000: Part 11 – Workmanship on building sites. Code of practice for wall and floor tiling Cladding BS 8298: 1994 – Code of practice for design and installation of natural stone cladding and lining BS 6213: 2000 – Guide to selection of construction sealants Installation Cladding BS 8298: 1994 – Code of practice for design and installation of natural stone cladding and lining BS 6213: 2000 – Guide to selection of construction sealants 23

Different types of applications Interior Flooring Exterior Flooring Different Types of Applications I have touched on the versatility of Phyllite a number of times. The next few slides will give some examples of how Riverstone Phyllite has and can be used.

Different types of applications cont. Window sills Slabs Different Types of Applications Action: Brief description of each application.

Different types of applications cont. External Wall Cladding Internal Wall Cladding Different Types of Applications Action: Brief description of each application.

Different types of applications cont. Roofing Different Types of Applications Action: Brief description of each application.

Thank You Thank You Thank you for attending this seminar, I hope you found it useful and I am happy to answer any questions you may have.