Cultured marble

Cultured marble, also referred to as cast polymer,is a plastic composite blend of high strength polyester resin and marble dust formed in a variety of molds to make a single piece article such as bathtubs, shower pans and vanity tops [ [http://www.culturedmarbleusa.com Classic Cultured Marble - Home ] ] with a surface that resembles marble. [ [http://www.cst.cmich.edu/users/dietr1rv/marble.htm SIMULANTS] ] Though it is a less expensive alternative to marble, it can have more tensile strength.

Because cultured marble is made with a moulding process, [Sunrise International Company [http://www.culturedmarblemolds.com/ Cultured Marble Molds] Training, Support] it allows greater design flexibility than with stone. For instance, manufacturers of cultured marble can make a bathroom vanity with integrated bowl (or bowls). The manufacturing process encompasses several steps.Sunrise International Company [http://www.culturedmarblemolds.com/cmmfaqs.html FAQ - Starting a Cultured Marble factory] ] One step uses a non-porous gelcoat on the counters and sinks which seals the product and prevents later mold and bacteria growth and staining. The process does not use hazardous material; the main risk is the flammability of the polyester resin.

The cultured marble industry is represented in many locations world-wide. [Sunrise International Company [http://www.culturedmarblemolds.com/factories.html Starting factories] in Nigeria, Romania, Mexico, China] The Kansas City, MO area is very prominent, with several large manufacturers: Leathers Cast Polymer, Bakers Marble, Complete Home Concepts, and [http://www.onyxcollection.com The Onyx Collection.] Some products carry a long guarantee, [The Onyx Collection [http://www.onyxcollection.com/new/guarantee.html Yes! Guaranteed Forever] ] but long term durability has not been established since formulations and processing methods change with advances in the technology.

ee also

*Surface fabricator
*Surface engineering

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