Limestone is calcareous sedimentary rocks formed at the bottom of lakes and seas with the accumulation of shells,

bones and other calcium rich goods. It is composed of calcite (CaCO3). The organic matter upon which it settles in
lakes or seas, are preserved as fossils. Over thousands and millions of years, layer after layer is built up adding
weight. The heat and pressure causes chemical reaction at the bottom and the sediments turn into solid stone, the
limestone.
The rock which contain more than 95% of calcium carbonate is known as high-calcium limestone. Recrystallised
limestone takes good polish and is usually used as decorative and building stone.
A part of calcium molecules if being replaced by magnesium, it is known as magnesium lime stone or dolomite
limestone.
Limestone that will take a polish are considered marbles by most people, but technically, if there are still shells visible
or the structure is not crystalline, it is still a limestone.

Physical Properties of Limestone

Physically, Limestones are Quite impervious, Hard, Compact, fine to very fine grained calcareous rocks of
sedimentary nature.
Hardness

3 to 4 on Moh's Scale

Density

2.5 to 2.7 Kg/cm3

Compressive Strength

60-170 N/mm2

Water Absorption

Less than 1%

Porosity

Quite low

Weather Impact

Resistant

Chemical Properties of Limestone

Chemically, they are calcareous rocks principally of calcic minerals with minor amounts of alumina, ferric & alkaline
oxides.
Lime (CaO)

38-42%

Silica (SiO2)

15-18%

Alumina (Al2O3)

3-5%

MgO

0.5 to 3%

FeO + Fe2O3

1-1.5%

Alkalies

1-1.5%

Loss On Ignition (LOI)

30-32%

Note :- Limestone, like marble and other calcareous stones, are referred to as acid sensitive. Calcareous stones are
readily dissolved in acid, therefore acidic products should not be used on limestone and marbles.

Uses of Limestone

Flooring

Wall cladding

Vanity tops

Furniture

Cement Production

RefiningMetals

Blackboard chalk