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| WHAT IS ZODIAQ WHY ZODIAQ QUARTZ? Quartz crystal makes dazzling jewellery, yet has the energy and precision to power the most accurate timepieces. Zodiaq Quartz is extremely hard, with unusual depth, clarity and radiance. More reasons why DuPont selected quartz as the core ingredient for Zodiaq. Quartz is one of the most varied minerals, occurring in different types, colours and forms, each with it own unique appearance. It is found in the ground, in sand, in rocks - in nearly every geological environ ment around the world. It is a crystal with many facets in its original form, giving it a radiance similai to that of diamonds. It provides rich aesthetics coupled with extraordinary strength and durability. CHARACTERISTICS Strong Zodiaq stands out for its superior strength and durability. Because it is made of quartz, It has exceptional toughness and a rating of 7 out of 10 on the Mohs' hardness scale. This makes it extremely resistant to scratches, chips, cracks or dulling. Zodiaq® can be cut and installed to meet design requirements with precision, uniformity and consistency. Colours and patterns run all the way through the material and cannot wear off. It is dense and stain resistant, with no sealing required. This capability helps ensure accuracy in ordering, while reducing waste and inventory. It survives the impact, nicks and cuts that can occur with daily wear and tear. It complies with existing class 1 standards for flame resistance and fire safety. Hygienic Zodiaq surfaces are hygienic because the material is non-porous; bacteria and mould have nowhere to hide. Inert, non-toxic, chemically non-reactive, the hygienic properties are certified by an independent laboratory using an Internationally recognized standard method (DIN EN ISO 846). Workable like stone Zodiaq quartz surfaces can be fit and cut, utilizing the same tools used when working with any marble or stone, to meet exacting requirements with precision, uniformity and consistency. It can be machined, sandblasted and inlaid. Also, a wide variety of edge treatments are attainable. Consistent Zodiaq3 offers consistency of structure and aesthetics, ensuring a coherent appearance throughout an installation. In addition, proprietary pigment-polymer technology from DuPont helps ensure uniformity of colours. PRODUCTION Zodiaq is manufactured by DuPont. The three main ingredients quartz, pigments and the proprietary polymer are thoroughly mixed in the first step of the process. This mixture is subsequently moved to the so-called lay-down' area where the mixture is molded and shaken (vibro-compacted) in a vacuum. This process defines the rough size of the slab in the mold, then compresses all the raw materials together while removing any mixed-in air, effecting the strength and homogeneity of the final product. The slabs move to the curing tower in which the uncured proprietary resin transforms into solid polymer. Subsequently the slabs go through a series of wet abrasive grinding steps. The first step is designed to gauge the slab to the desired thickness. In the next steps finer abrasives are used to obtain the final surface gloss. The slabs are then cut to size and moved to a manufacturing shop. GUIDELINES FOR DESIGNING WITH ZODIAQ Applications DuPont Zodiaq Quartz Surfaces are the natural choice for designers and architects. Like stone, it can be precisely machined, allowing designers the freedom to fulfill their visions. Combining authenticity with artistry, it brings a unique dimension to both horizontal and vertical surfaces in all types of interior design applications. Zodiaq can be used in a variety of commercial applications including lodging/hospitality, food service, education, retail, healthcare, entertainment and corporate spaces. Other applications include wall cladding, worksurfaces, reception counters, windowsills, bar tops, vanity tops, wet areas, tabletops, sales counters and lab tables. Zodiaq is equally effective in residential environments, whether contemporary or classic in style. The versatile character allows it to make a bold individual statement or to blend harmoniously with other materials such as stainless steel, wood or glass. This type of application includes kitchen countertops, bath vanity tops, tub decks, and tub and shower surrounds, as well as furniture surfaces and tabletops. Slab sizes and colours All the Zodiaq colours are available in 20 and 30 mm thickness. Slab dimensions are 1320 mm wide and 3000 mm long. It is available in over 20 colours (for latest Zodiaq® colour offering see separate colour brochure). |
