Essentially
Natural and engineered stones such as marble, granite, and quartz lend an elegant touch to spaces, making them a favoured choice. However, their inherent susceptibility to water, chemicals, and physical damages decreases their longevity and necessitates continuous professional maintenance. This hassle, along with their premium pricing, gives rise to a unique set of challenges.Tackling these, novel PFAS-free nanotechnology solutions, have emerged as a reliable and durable defender of these beautiful surfaces. They specially fortify stone materials, enhancing their longevity, resilience, and aesthetic allure, all while alleviating maintenance needs, providing a cost-effective solution in the long run.
Sample Stone
Nanocoating
Use-Cases
Did You Know
Porosity, which indicates the proportion of microscopic voids or pores within a material, is an important factor when selecting and applying nanocoatings on stone surfaces. The following tables examine various types of stones, their prevalent applications, and highlight nanotechnology's ability to improve stone surface properties.More Porous
Stone Types
More porous stones can absorb liquids due to the tiny pores that are present in the stone. This makes them more susceptible to staining and weathering, and therefore less durable and considerably harder to maintain. Specially engineered nanocoatings offer a durable, protective, breathable top layer, which protects the stone from most external damaging agents.
| Type | Common Uses | Most Demanded Nanocoating Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basalt | Landscaping, pavement | Waterproofing, stain resistance, weathering protection |
| Marble | Countertops, sculpture, flooring | Waterproofing, stain resistance, gloss, etching protection, easy-cleaning |
| Sandstone | Buildings, cladding, landscaping | Waterproofing, colour enhancement, weathering / UV protection |
| Slate | Flooring, roofing, landscaping | Waterproofing, colour enhancement, weathering / UV protection |
| Limestone | Construction, soil conditioner | Waterproofing, stain resistance, weathering protection |
| Travertine | Building, garden paths | Waterproofing, stain resistance, colour enhancement, easy-cleaning |
| Clay | Bricks, tiles, pottery | Durability, weathering protection, stain resistance, waterproofing, easy-cleaning |
Less Porous
Stone Types
Less-porous stones have a denser composition that naturally repels water and resists staining to some degree. And yet, there can be tarnished by stains, eroded by weather, chipped or scratched through significant usage. We provide bespoke nanocoating solutions which protect against these, sustaining the natural appearance and enhancing the lifespan and integrity of your stones.
| Type | Common Uses | Most Demanded Nanocoating Features |
|---|---|---|
| Quartz | Countertops, flooring | Stain resistance, gloss, wear-resistance, waterproofing, easy-cleaning |
| Granite | Countertops, flooring, monuments | Stain/scratch resistance, UV protection, waterproofing, colour enhancement, easy-cleaning |
| Soapstone | Countertops, sinks, fireplaces | Patrol reducing, scratch resistance, waterproofing |
| Onyx | Countertops, wall tiles, flooring | Color enhancement, gloss, stain resistance, waterproofing, easy-cleaning |
| Quartzite | Countertops, flooring | Gloss, stain/scratch resistance, waterproofing, easy-cleaning |
| Sintered Stone | Countertops | Stain/scratch resistance, UV protection, waterproofing, easy-cleaning |
| Engineered Stone | Countertops, flooring | Stain resistance, scratch resistance, gloss, waterproofing, easy-cleaning |
Unique Benefits
of Nanocoatings
Marble, granite, quartz and many other natural and man-made stone surfaces used in- and outdoors are prized for their unique beauty and durability. They are widely used in construction, architecture, and interior design, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space.However, these surfaces can be vulnerable to damage from environmental factors, including water, chemicals, and scratches, which can mar their appearance and compromise their structural integrity. To address these challenges, nanotechnology has emerged as a modern solution, offering a range of benefits for protecting and preserving natural stone surfaces.
- Water Damage Prevention: Nanocoatings create a protective barrier that repels water and other liquids, preventing staining and discolouration that can ruin the surface's appearance.
- Chemical Damage Resistance: Nanocoatings provide a protective layer that resists chemicals, making them highly resistant to etching, dulling, and other forms of chemical damage.
- Invisible to the naked eye: The very nature of nanotech means that Nanomaterials applied on a substrate on a Nanometer level (1-300Nm) will not change its appearance in any way.
- UV Protection: Nanocoatings protect natural stone surfaces from fading and discolouration caused by exposure to UV rays from the sun.
- Scratch Resistance: Nanocoatings provide a protective layer that resists scratches and abrasions, keeping the surface looking new for longer.
- Easy Cleaning: Nanocoatings create a self-cleaning effect that repels dirt and other contaminants from the surface, making cleaning a breeze.
- Heat Resistance: Nanocoatings provide a protective layer that resists heat damage, making them highly heat-resistant and able to withstand exposure to hot pans or appliances.
- Cost-Effective: Nanocoatings are a cost-effective solution for maintaining natural stone surfaces, as they can prolong the surface's lifespan and reduce the need for frequent repairs or replacement.
- Environmentally-Friendly: All nanocoatings Lotus Nano recommends are PFAS-free and do not contain harmful chemicals, making them a sustainable choice for surface protection.
- Humidity Protection: Nanocoatings repel moisture, keeping the surface looking new for longer in humid climates.
- Pollution Resistance: Nanocoatings resist pollution, keeping the surface looking clean and vibrant even in polluted environments.
- Algae, Fungi, Virus and Bacteria Protection: Certain nanomaterials can easily and reliably inhibit the growth of algae, fungi, viruses and bacteria - preventing discolouration and damage to the surface and keeping you healthier especially in humid environments.
- Long-Lasting Protection: Nanocoatings offer many years of protection for natural stone surfaces, creating a strong protective layer that can withstand exposure to water, chemicals, UV rays, scratches, and other forms of damage, ensuring that the surface looks new for longer and prolonging its lifespan.
Applications of Nanocoatings on Stone Surfaces
Nanocoatings can be applied to a wide range of natural stone surfaces, including marble, granite, limestone, and travertine. These coatings can be used in various industries, including construction, hospitality, and home decor.
Examples of applications include:
- Hospitality industry: Marble and granite surfaces in hotels, resorts, and restaurants can benefit from nanocoatings to protect them from water damage, chemical damage, and scratches.
- Residential properties: Nanocoatings can be applied to marble and granite surfaces in bathrooms, kitchens, and living areas in homes to protect them from water damage, chemical damage, and scratches.
- Art galleries and museums: Nanocoatings can be applied to marble and stone sculptures to protect them from UV damage, scratches, and other environmental factors.
- Commercial buildings: Nanocoatings can be applied to marble and granite surfaces in office buildings, retail stores, and public spaces to protect them from water damage, chemical damage, and scratches.
- Monuments and memorials: Natural stone monuments and memorials can benefit from nanocoatings to protect them from weathering, pollution, and other environmental factors that can cause damage and discolouration.
- Libraries and archives: Natural stone floors and shelves in libraries and archives can benefit from nanocoatings to protect them from wear and tear, stains, and discolouration.
- Religious buildings: Nanocoatings can be applied to natural stone surfaces in temples, churches, and mosques to protect them from water damage, chemical damage, and scratches. This protection helps to maintain the aesthetic appearance of the building and preserve its cultural and historical significance.
- Government buildings: Nanocoatings can be applied to natural stone surfaces in courthouses and city halls to protect them from wear and tear, stains, and discolouration. This protection helps to maintain the appearance of the building and prolong its lifespan.
Indoor and Outdoor Applications of Stone Nanocoatings
Whether you're dealing with an indoor setting or an outdoor project, nanocoatings enhance stone product performance in both scenarios, underscoring their versatility. Let's explore how:
- Indoor Applications: For indoor uses such as flooring, countertops, bathrooms, and wall claddings, nanocoated stone products resist stains, scratches, and the effects of moisture. This increases the product's lifecycle and maintains their aesthetic charm. In high-traffic areas or places prone to wear and tear, nanocoated stone can withstand such conditions more effectively.
- Outdoor Applications: Outdoor stone installations like patios, walkways, building facades, and exterior cladding intensely interact with the elements. Nanocoatings protect these products from weathering, UV damage, biological growth (like algae or moss), and erosion, keeping them looking their best over time. Furthermore, nanocoated stones maintain their physical integrity better, ensuring they're safer and more durable in the long run.
How are Nanocoatings Applied
Nanocoatings are applied using a spray or roller application method. The surface must be cleaned thoroughly before application to ensure that the coating adheres properly. The coating is then applied in thin layers until the desired thickness is achieved. The surface is left to dry for a specific amount of time, depending on the type of coating used. After drying, the surface can be polished to achieve a glossy finish.
In industrial settings there are a number of different ways nanomaterials can be effectively applied on substrates.
Durability of Nanocoatings
The lifespan of nanocoatings depends on the type of coating used, the environment in which it is applied, and the level of maintenance. On average, nanocoatings can last for up to 5 years and often longer with a little bit of simple maintenance. Regular cleaning and maintenance with simple soap- or alcohol based cleaning products can extend the lifespan of the coating considerably.
Maintenance of Nanocoatings on Stone Surfaces
The need to reapply a nanocoating on natural stone surfaces depends on a few obvious factors, including the type of coating used, the frequency and intensity of use of the surface, and the level of exposure to environmental factors such as sunlight and moisture.
In general, most nanocoatings are designed to provide long-lasting protection to natural stone surfaces, and do not need to be reapplied for many years. The exact lifespan of a nanocoating can vary depending on the specific product and application.
Most nanocoatings will require some kind of gentle periodic maintenance to ensure that they continue to provide optimal protection. This involves cleaning the surface with mild soap and water.
At Lotus Nano we have the expertise and experience to inform the frequency of application and maintenance. We will also help you set a regular maintenance and care programme which will help to prolong the lifespan of the nanocoating and ensure that it continues to provide the desired level of protection to the natural stone surface.
Nanocoatings Change how Stone Surfaces are Maintained
The use of nanocoatings for natural and man-mad stone surfaces offers numerous benefits, including a more sustainable way of living. While some benefits may be more obvious, such as easier maintenance and cleaning, the environmental advantages are often overlooked.
The application of nanocoatings can change the way natural stone surfaces are maintained, making them easier to clean and maintain without the use of harsh chemicals that can damage the surface.
The self-cleaning effect of nanocoatings also means that dirt and other contaminants do not stick to the surface, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and helping to promote a more sustainable approach to maintaining natural stone surfaces.
Manufacturers, Traders, Retailers: Leverage Nanotech
If you are a Manufacturer, Trader, Retailer, Installer, or a Maintenance Company dealing with natural stone products such as marble, granite, limestone, slate, sandstone, travertine, onyx, ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, quartz, and more, nanocoatings could be a significant addition to your offerings. Here's how you and your clients can benefit:
- Enhanced Product Performance & Longevity: Nanocoatings increase the durability and resistance of natural stone products against damage, stains, and discolouration, improving their long-term usability.
- Innovation & Reputation: Adopting nanotech applications demonstrates your commitment to innovation, showcasing your brand as forward-thinking and quality-conscious.
- Competitive Advantage & Brand Differentiation: Offering nanocoated products allows your brand to stand out in the crowded market, providing a unique selling point.
- Financial Benefits: By offering this premium service, you can charge more for your products, increasing sales, and achieving higher profit margins.
- Sustainability: Less frequent cleaning and maintenance due to nanocoatings leads to lower water and energy consumption, providing a green solution.
- Customisation: Nanocoatings can be tailored to the specific needs of different stone products, allowing you to meet unique customer requirements.
Talk to Lotus Nano
Stone manufacturers, and vendors can offer an easy and resource-friendly method of keeping their stone surfaces pristine. Marketing this as a "Nanocoating-as-a-Service" (NaaS) adds another dimension to your brand - a testament to your forward-thinking approach, environmental consciousness, and commitment to customer needs and wants. There's a sales-boosting opportunity waiting for businesses ready to embrace the benefits of nanocoatings.
