Quick answer — is this basalt suitable for mineral wool?
Data pending — request assay. Basalt compatibility for mineral wool production depends on verified oxide balances, loss on ignition (LOI), and trace contaminant levels specific to each quarry lot. Without certified XRF analysis confirming SiO₂/Al₂O₃/CaO ratios and sulfur/phosphorus/chlorine impurities, no definitive suitability assessment can be made. Basalt quarry technical data must include complete major oxide profiles, physical gradations, and chain-of-custody documentation before procurement decisions. Contact Citadel Stone’s technical team to request a verified data pack and trial sample for your specific application requirements.
Why verified basalt assay data matters for mineral wool
Mineral wool production demands precise chemical control to achieve consistent fiber formation, melt viscosity, and product performance. XRF assay data directly impacts furnace operation and fiber quality through multiple pathways. Iron oxide content (Fe₂O₃) influences melt color, oxidation state, and viscosity windows—excessive iron creates processing challenges and color variations in the final product¹. Calcium and magnesium oxides (CaO/MgO) control basicity index and slag formation behavior, affecting fiber crystallization tendencies during cooling².
Trace impurities present critical processing constraints. Sulfur content above acceptance thresholds generates SO₂ emissions during melting, requiring additional environmental controls and potentially violating air quality permits. Phosphorus and chlorine create corrosive off-gases that damage refractory linings and downstream equipment³. Loss on ignition (LOI) indicates hydrated minerals, organic matter, or carbonates that consume thermal energy and generate unwanted gases during melting.
Alkaline oxides (Na₂O/K₂O) function as fluxing agents, lowering melt temperatures but potentially compromising fiber durability if present in excessive concentrations. The SiO₂/Al₂O₃ ratio determines glass network formation and influences fiber strength and chemical resistance⁴. Without verified chemical analysis, melt-shop engineers cannot optimize charge calculations, predict furnace behavior, or ensure consistent product quality.
R&D teams require complete oxide profiles to conduct thermodynamic modeling, calculate liquidus temperatures, and design pilot trials. Procurement managers need certified assay data with traceable chain-of-custody to meet quality specifications and enable supplier comparisons. Regulatory compliance for air emissions and waste characterization also depends on accurate chemical composition data from accredited laboratories⁵.
What’s in a basalt assay — the chemistry checklist
Every basalt for mineral wool evaluation requires comprehensive chemical and physical characterization through standardized analytical methods. Major oxide determination by XRF assay provides the foundation for melt chemistry calculations and process optimization. ICP-OES or ICP-MS analysis delivers precise trace element quantification for environmental and processing assessments.
Required analytical parameters include:
- Major oxides: SiO₂, Al₂O₃, CaO, MgO, Fe₂O₃ (total iron as Fe₂O₃), TiO₂, MnO, Na₂O, K₂O, P₂O₅, SO₃
- Loss on ignition (LOI): Thermogravimetric analysis at 1000°C
- Trace elements: S, P, Cl, Cr, Ni, Pb, Zn, Cu, V (ICP-OES/MS)
- Physical properties: Moisture content (%), bulk density (kg/m³), apparent density, porosity
- Particle gradation: Sieve analysis per ASTM E11 for crushed basalt feed sizes
- Petrographic analysis: Thin section examination per ASTM C295, mineral phase identification
Recommended test methods:
- XRF spectroscopy for oxide weight percentages (±0.01% precision)
- Thermogravimetry for LOI determination (±0.05% precision)
- Oven drying at 105°C for moisture content
- Petrographic examination for mineral identification and texture analysis
Assay Template Table
| Parameter | Method | Units | Reporting Precision | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SiO₂ | XRF | wt% | ±0.01 | |
| Al₂O₃ | XRF | wt% | ±0.01 | |
| CaO | XRF | wt% | ||
| MgO | XRF | wt% | ±0.01 | |
| Fe₂O₃ | XRF | wt% | ||
| TiO₂ | XRF | wt% | ||
| LOI | Thermogravimetry | wt% | ±0.05 | |
| S | ICP-OES | ppm | ±10 | |
| P | ICP-OES | ppm | ±5 | |
| Cl | ICP-OES | ppm | ||
| Moisture | Oven drying | wt% |
Numerical assay values are provided for reference only and must be verified with original laboratory reports. Contact Citadel Stone to request the certified assay and sample for your trial runs.
Typical basalt composition (discussion) — what you’ll commonly see and why ranges vary
Basalt chemical composition varies significantly based on geological origin, magmatic processes, and alteration history. SiO₂ typically represents the largest oxide fraction in most basalts suitable for mineral wool applications, providing the glass-forming network structure essential for fiber production. Aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃) contributes to melt viscosity and fiber durability, while calcium and magnesium oxides supply the alkaline earth components required for basicity adjustment [illustrative ranges require verification].
Iron oxides present in basaltic feedstocks influence both processing characteristics and product properties. Total iron content affects melt color, redox conditions, and crystallization behavior during cooling. Titanium dioxide, common in basaltic minerals, impacts melt viscosity and can contribute to fiber opacity. Alkali oxides (Na₂O, K₂O) function as flux components but require careful control to maintain fiber chemical durability.
Compositional variability occurs due to several geological factors. Primary magmatic composition depends on mantle source characteristics and degree of partial melting. Fractional crystallization processes during magma evolution alter oxide ratios through mineral separation. Post-emplacement weathering and hydrothermal alteration can modify original compositions, particularly affecting alkali content and introducing hydrated phases detected through LOI analysis.
Geographic location significantly influences basalt chemistry. Continental flood basalts often exhibit different compositional signatures compared to oceanic island or mid-ocean ridge basalts. Quarry operators should expect compositional variation even within individual flows or formations. This natural variability necessitates lot-by-lot analysis for mineral wool applications requiring consistent feedstock chemistry.
Reported compositional envelopes for mineral wool basalts — needs verification: SiO₂ typically ranges widely depending on basalt type; CaO and MgO concentrations vary with mineral assemblage; iron oxide content fluctuates based on oxidation state and primary mineral composition. All numeric ranges require validation through certified laboratory analysis before procurement decisions.
Melt & processing signals — what the chemistry tells melt-shop engineers
Basalt chemistry provides critical indicators for melt-shop operations and fiber formation processes. Silicon and aluminum oxides determine melt viscosity characteristics and glass network formation—higher SiO₂/Al₂O₃ ratios generally increase viscosity and operating temperatures. Calcium and magnesium concentrations directly influence basicity index calculations and slag formation behavior during melting.
Iron oxide content affects multiple processing parameters. Fe₂O₃ influences melt color from green to dark brown, impacts oxidation-reduction equilibria, and affects crystallization kinetics during cooling. Excessive iron content can create processing difficulties through increased melt viscosity and tendency toward crystalline phase formation. Titanium dioxide contributes to opacity and can influence melt flow characteristics.
Alkaline oxides (Na₂O/K₂O) function as powerful fluxing agents, reducing melting temperatures but potentially compromising long-term fiber durability if concentrations exceed acceptable limits. These components lower liquidus temperatures and improve melt fluidity but require careful balance with alkaline earth oxides to maintain desired basicity ratios.
Trace contaminants create specific processing challenges:
- Sulfur content: Generates SO₂ emissions during melting, requiring environmental controls
- Phosphorus: Forms volatile compounds and affects refractory service life
- Chlorine: Creates corrosive conditions and off-gas treatment requirements
- Heavy metals: May require special handling and waste management protocols
Conceptual processing indicators:
- If LOI → investigate hydrated minerals or organic content — dry and retest
- If sulfur → evaluate emission control requirements and furnace corrosion potential
- If basicity index outside target range → adjust charge composition or blend with complementary feedstock
- If alkali content elevated → assess fiber durability implications and consider process modifications
Final furnace operating parameters must be established through controlled trials with qualified melt-shop technologists. Chemical analysis provides the foundation for process design but requires validation through actual melting trials and fiber characterization testing.
Physical feedstock specs — gradations, moisture & handling
Mineral wool feedstock basalt requires specific physical characteristics for efficient furnace charging and consistent melt behavior. Particle size distribution significantly impacts melting kinetics, heat transfer efficiency, and dust generation during handling. Illustrative gradation bands commonly specified for rock wool production include crusher run sizes optimized for furnace geometry and residence time requirements.
Moisture content control prevents steam generation during charging and maintains consistent heat balance calculations. Typical moisture tolerances range from [illustrative — verify with mill requirements] to avoid thermal shock and ensure predictable melt behavior. Excessive moisture creates energy penalties and can cause furnace refractory damage through rapid steam expansion.
Bulk density affects transportation costs, storage requirements, and charging equipment design. Apparent density measurements help predict packing characteristics and melting behavior. Porosity indicators provide insights into weathering extent and potential for moisture absorption during storage and transport.
Physical handling considerations:
- Dust control: Minimize fines generation during crushing, screening, and transport
- Segregation prevention: Maintain gradation consistency through proper loading and unloading procedures
- Contamination avoidance: Prevent organic matter, metal fragments, or foreign material introduction
- Storage protection: Cover stockpiles to control moisture uptake and prevent freeze-thaw damage
Chain of custody protocols ensure sample integrity from quarry through laboratory analysis. Proper documentation tracks material origin, sampling procedures, and handling history. Witnessed sampling options provide additional quality assurance for critical procurement decisions.
Packaging options include bulk truck delivery for large-volume consumers or palletized supersacks for pilot trials and small-batch testing. Sample sizes for laboratory trials typically require 50-100 kg minimum to enable complete characterization testing and melt trials.
Acceptance criteria & out-of-spec actions
Industrial Acceptance Matrix
| Parameter | Illustrative Range* | Test Method | Action on Out-of-Spec |
|---|---|---|---|
| SiO₂ | [illustrative / require verified assay] | XRF | Reject batch or blend with complementary feedstock |
| Al₂O₃ | [illustrative / require verified assay] | XRF | Evaluate melt viscosity impact, adjust charge |
| CaO | [illustrative / require verified assay] | XRF | Recalculate basicity index, consider blending |
| MgO | [illustrative / require verified assay] | XRF | Assess alkaline earth balance, adjust if needed |
| Fe₂O₃ | [illustrative / require verified assay] | XRF | Evaluate color/processing impact, potential rejection |
| LOI | [illustrative / require verified assay] | Thermogravimetry | Investigate source, dry material, retest |
| S content | [illustrative / require verified assay] | ICP-OES | Assess emission controls, potential rejection |
| P content | [illustrative / require verified assay] | ICP-OES | Evaluate corrosion potential, furnace compatibility |
| Cl content | [illustrative / require verified assay] | ICP-OES | Review off-gas treatment capacity |
| Moisture | [illustrative / require verified assay] | Oven drying | Dry material before charging, adjust heat balance |
*All acceptance ranges are illustrative and require verification through plant-specific trials and certified assay data.
Out-of-specification response protocols depend on the specific parameter and deviation magnitude. Minor variations may be addressed through charge blending with complementary feedstocks or furnace parameter adjustments. Significant deviations require supplier re-analysis, batch rejection, or return to quarry for replacement material.
Retest rights and dispute resolution should be established in procurement contracts with clear protocols for split-sample analysis, third-party laboratory confirmation, and cost responsibility. Acceptance criteria must reflect actual plant capabilities and product specifications rather than generic industry standards.
Quality escalation procedures should define notification requirements, hold procedures for suspect material, and corrective action timelines. Supplier performance tracking through statistical process control helps identify trends and prevent recurring quality issues.
Quality control & sampling protocols
ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratories provide the analytical foundation for confident feedstock acceptance decisions. Laboratory selection should emphasize relevant experience with geological materials, appropriate detection limits for trace contaminants, and rapid turnaround capabilities for time-sensitive procurement decisions.
Supplier Sample Collection Workflow
- Representative sampling: Collect samples from multiple locations across the quarry face or stockpile using systematic grid patterns
- Sample size: Minimum 50 kg composite sample for complete characterization, split into primary and retention portions
- Chain of custody: Document sample identification, collection date, personnel, and storage conditions
- Packaging: Use clean, sealed containers with tamper-evident closures and moisture-proof barriers
- Shipment: Transport samples within 48 hours of collection with temperature and handling logs
On-Receipt QC & Acceptance Testing Workflow
- Sample verification: Confirm chain-of-custody documentation and packaging integrity
- Visual inspection: Document sample appearance, moisture condition, and any obvious contamination
- Sample splitting: Divide received material using riffle splitters or cone-and-quarter methods
- Retention samples: Store split portions under controlled conditions for potential reanalysis
- Laboratory submission: Submit primary samples to accredited laboratories with specific analytical requirements
- Witness options: Arrange witnessed sample preparation and analysis for critical procurements
Quality control frequency depends on material volume and supplier performance history. New suppliers require analysis of every shipment until consistent quality is demonstrated. Established suppliers with good performance records may qualify for reduced testing frequency based on statistical process control results.
Split-sample retention periods should extend at least 90 days beyond final acceptance to enable dispute resolution and reanalysis if needed. Proper storage conditions prevent moisture uptake, oxidation, and degradation that could affect retest results.
Laboratory accreditation verification ensures analytical competence and traceability. Confirm ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation scope covers required test methods and detection limits. Regular proficiency testing participation and measurement uncertainty reporting demonstrate ongoing analytical capability.
Data delivery & downloadable assets
Recommended Data Pack Contents
Citadel Stone delivers comprehensive technical data packages in standardized formats for efficient integration with customer quality systems. Each quarry lot includes complete analytical documentation with traceable chain-of-custody and machine-readable data formats.
Standard deliverable package:
- assay.PDF: Complete XRF and ICP-OES analytical report from accredited laboratory
- sieve.csv: Particle size distribution data in spreadsheet format
- moisture_report.PDF: Oven-drying analysis with temperature and time documentation
- chain_of_custody.PDF: Sample collection, handling, and laboratory submission records
- TDS.PDF: Technical data sheet summarizing key properties and recommended applications
- COA.PDF: Certificate of analysis with quality manager authorization
- sample_photos.zip: Digital images showing representative material appearance and texture
Data integrity verification includes digital signatures, timestamp validation, and laboratory accreditation confirmation. All numeric values include measurement uncertainty and detection limit information for quality assurance purposes.
Procurement & contract language — what to require in RFQs
MasterFormat-Style Template Clause (Non-Legal/Template Only)
BASALT AGGREGATE FOR MINERAL WOOL PRODUCTION
A. General Requirements:
- Provide fresh, unweathered basalt aggregate from approved quarry sources
- Deliver complete analytical documentation with each shipment
- Maintain chain-of-custody records from quarry to delivery point
- Provide certified assay analysis from ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory
B. Chemical Requirements:
- Submit complete major oxide analysis (SiO₂, Al₂O₃, CaO, MgO, Fe₂O₃, others as specified)
- Report loss on ignition (LOI) by thermogravimetric analysis
- Provide trace element analysis for S, P, Cl, and heavy metals
- Chemical composition shall conform to approved limits established through trial program
C. Physical Requirements:
- Particle gradation per approved sieve analysis
- Moisture content not to exceed specified limits
- Bulk density within acceptable range for handling equipment
- Free from deleterious materials, organic matter, and contamination
D. Quality Assurance:
- Buyer reserves right to witness sampling and testing procedures
- Retain split samples for minimum 90 days after delivery
- Provide retest rights at independent laboratory if results disputed
- Supplier warrants analytical accuracy for 30 days from delivery
Mandatory Data Fields for Bid Responses
- Laboratory name and ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation certificate
- Complete major oxide analysis with measurement uncertainty
- Trace element concentrations for specified contaminants
- Physical property data (gradation, moisture, bulk density)
- Sample collection and analytical dates
- Chain-of-custody documentation
- Certificate of analysis with authorized signatures
Negotiation considerations include analytical costs, sampling frequency, retest protocols, and quality escalation procedures. Establish clear acceptance criteria based on actual plant requirements rather than generic specifications. Define cost responsibility for out-of-specification material and replacement timelines.
Melt-shop trial plan (conceptual) — how to run a bench / pilot melt
Conceptual Trial Protocol (High-Level Steps Only)
Phase 1: Thermodynamic Assessment
- Computer modeling of melt chemistry and phase equilibria
- Liquidus temperature calculations and viscosity predictions
- Basicity index evaluation and slag formation assessment
- Preliminary charge calculations for target composition
Phase 2: Laboratory-Scale Melts
- Small-batch furnace trials (1-5 kg charges) with controlled atmosphere
- Melt behavior observation and temperature profiling
- Cooling rate studies and crystallization tendency evaluation
- Fiber drawing trials at laboratory scale
Phase 3: Pilot Furnace Evaluation
- Scaled pilot trials with production-representative equipment
- Heat balance verification and energy consumption measurement
- Emission characterization for environmental compliance
- Fiber quality assessment and product property testing
Phase 4: Product Qualification
- Full-scale fiber characterization testing
- Thermal conductivity and mechanical property verification
- Durability testing per applicable standards
- Production rate and yield optimization
Trial documentation requirements:
- Pre-trial: Material certifications, analytical reports, trial plan approval
- During trial: Process parameters, observations, sample collection records
- Post-trial: Analytical results, performance summary, recommendations report
Acceptance gates between phases prevent progression with unsuitable materials. Each phase requires documented approval before advancing to higher-cost trials. Comprehensive documentation enables scale-up decisions and commercial implementation planning.
Qualified melt-shop technologists must design specific furnace parameters, safety procedures, and operational settings. This conceptual framework provides structure but requires plant-specific customization based on equipment capabilities and safety requirements.
Case study / worked example
Illustrative Procurement Example (Numbers Illustrative)
Background: Regional mineral wool manufacturer evaluating new basalt supplier for rock wool insulation production. Required monthly volume: 2,000 tons crushed basalt aggregate.
Step 1: Initial Supplier Contact
- Requested complete analytical package per procurement specification
- Required 100 kg sample with witnessed collection protocol
- Specified ISO/IEC 17025 accredited laboratory analysis
Step 2: Analytical Review
- Illustrative assay results showed oxide composition within preliminary acceptance windows
- LOI value indicated minimal hydrated mineral content
- Trace element concentrations met emission control requirements
- Particle gradation compatible with existing handling equipment
Step 3: Pilot Trial Program
- Laboratory-scale melts confirmed acceptable viscosity characteristics
- No unusual crystallization behavior observed during cooling
- Fiber drawing trials produced acceptable product quality
- Energy consumption within expected range for material composition
Step 4: Commercial Decision
- Approved supplier for qualified supplier list
- Established monthly sampling and testing protocols
- Negotiated contract terms with retest rights and quality guarantees
- Implemented statistical process control for ongoing quality monitoring
Key success factors: Comprehensive upfront analysis, systematic trial progression, clear acceptance criteria, and robust quality control systems. Total evaluation timeline: 45 days from initial contact to commercial approval.
All numerical values in this example are illustrative and require verification through actual analytical testing for real procurement decisions.
FAQ for technical buyers
Q: How often should basalt feedstock be analyzed? A: New suppliers require every shipment analysis until consistent quality demonstrated. Established suppliers may qualify for reduced frequency based on statistical process control results.
Q: What causes compositional variation in basalt quarries? A: Geological factors including magmatic processes, fractional crystallization, post-emplacement alteration, and weathering create natural compositional variation requiring lot-by-lot analysis.
Q: Can different basalt sources be blended? A: Yes, with proper analytical control. Calculate weighted average compositions and verify compatibility through pilot trials before large-scale blending.
Q: How long are analytical results valid? A: Recommend maximum 6 months for chemical analysis, 30 days for moisture content. Reanalysis required after extended storage or exposure to weather.
Q: What if supplier assay disagrees with buyer testing? A: Invoke retest protocols using split samples at mutually agreed third-party laboratory. Contract should specify cost responsibility and dispute resolution procedures.
Q: Are there substitution rules for similar basalt sources? A: No universal substitution rules. Each source requires individual qualification through complete analytical characterization and processing trials.
Q: What sample size is needed for complete analysis? A: Minimum 50 kg composite sample enables complete characterization including major oxides, trace elements, physical properties, and petrographic analysis.
Q: How important is laboratory accreditation? A: ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation essential for analytical reliability. Verify accreditation scope covers required test methods and detection limits.
Q: Can weathered or altered basalt be used? A: Depends on alteration extent. Elevated LOI or unusual chemistry may indicate unsuitable alteration. Fresh, unweathered material preferred.
Q: What documentation should accompany each shipment? A: Certificate of analysis, chain-of-custody records, material safety data sheet, and quality manager authorization required for each delivery.
Data ethics & regulatory notes
Environmental considerations for quarried basalt feedstocks include air quality impacts from dust generation, water discharge quality from processing operations, and habitat disturbance from extraction activities. Mineral wool manufacturers should verify supplier environmental compliance and permits before establishing supply relationships.
Emissions reporting obligations may apply to sulfur and chlorine content in feedstocks due to SO₂ and HCl generation during melting. Coordinate with environmental compliance personnel to understand reporting requirements and emission factor calculations. Some facilities require feedstock sulfur content limits to maintain air quality permit compliance.
Waste characterization requirements depend on trace element concentrations in feedstock materials. Heavy metals (Pb, Cr, Ni) may affect waste disposal options and require special handling protocols. Consult environmental counsel for regulatory interpretation and compliance strategies.
Occupational health considerations include crystalline silica exposure during handling and processing operations. Implement appropriate dust control measures and respiratory protection programs based on material silica content and particle size distribution.
Large-volume procurement contracts should include environmental compliance warranties from suppliers and notification requirements for permit modifications or regulatory changes affecting material quality or availability.
Designing for Durability: Basalt Products in Action
Harborview Hotel — honed basalt tiles & prefabricated pool coping
Project brief & challenge: A 26-storey waterfront hotel sought a consistent dark stone palette for guest lobbies, spa wet-areas and the rooftop pool edge. Challenges included strict waterproofing warranties, rapid schedule turnarounds for multiple floors, and the need for a honed finish that resisted pool chemicals and heavy housekeeping procedures.
Citadel Stone role: Citadel partnered with the interior architect, the waterproofing subcontractor and the general contractor from DD through closeout. We specified a low-porosity honed basalt tile and custom prefabricated coping with sealed anchor cavities. Citadel produced shop drawings for tile layouts, supplied mockup panels to confirm grout and joint width, delivered chemical-resistance data and templated coping units to eliminate field cutting where possible.
Installation & coordination: Deliveries were sequenced to match membrane cure windows. Citadel led on-site training sessions for basalt tile installers detailing adhesives compatible with the membrane, supervised critical transitions where tile met metal flashing, and provided an inspection checklist for the GC to use during punch-list walks.
Outcome & benefits: The hotel opened on schedule. Basalt finishes showed excellent color stability and minimal staining after six months of use. The GC and architect credited Citadel’s early technical submittals and prefabrication strategy for preventing costly waterproofing rework.
Millbank Plaza — durable basalt pavers, seat-wall coping & integrated drainage
Project brief & challenge: A high-use urban plaza required heavy-duty pavers for festival loads, low parapet coping that doubled as seating, and a subbase/edge system that channeled stormwater to an adjacent bioswale. Tight access and municipal permitting added logistic constraints.
Citadel Stone role: Working with the landscape architect, civil engineer and contractor, Citadel selected dense interlocking basalt pavers and engineered coping sections with mechanical anchors and integrated drainage slots. We provided detailed bedding and jointing specifications optimized for permeability and dynamic crowd loads and produced mock installations to validate edge restraint details.
Installation & coordination: Citadel sequenced deliveries to match subbase compaction and bioswale tie-ins, supervised tolerance checks for ramps and ADA slopes, and trained the paving crew on jointing patterns that preserved permeability. We also issued a maintenance guide for municipal crews.
Outcome & benefits: The plaza withstood early festival loads without displacement; drainage performed to design, and the seating coping met comfort and resilience targets. The city praised Citadel’s coordination during inspections and seasonal turnover.
ArborTech Campus — basalt rainscreen cladding & thermal-broken anchorage
Project brief & challenge: A technology campus wanted a premium stone façade: thin basalt panels, hairline joints, concealed anchors and strict thermal break requirements to prevent cold bridging. The façade contractor needed precise prefabrication tolerances and reliable pull-test data.
Citadel Stone role: Citadel engineered prefabricated basalt panels with stainless-steel, thermally-isolated anchors and supplied full-scale mockups for owner approval. We coordinated with the architect, façade consultant and the glazing subcontractor to align panel layout with window modules and penetration points for MEP. CNC templates and panel mapping simplified onsite setting.
Installation & coordination: Panel production was sequenced to scaffold lifts; Citadel’s field team adjusted anchor lengths per panel and supervised flashing and termination where cladding met fenestration. We organized anchor pull testing and provided a QC checklist for the façade team.
Outcome & benefits: The façade delivered the clean, monolithic look the architect wanted and met wind-load performance targets. The façade contractor reported fewer field adjustments and faster set times thanks to accurate shop drawings and on-site engineering support.
State Route 88 Rehabilitation — crushed basalt for structural base & HMA aggregate
Project brief & challenge: A DOT pavement rehabilitation required crushed basalt aggregate for high-performance HMA and engineered base material for heavy truck corridors. The contractor demanded consistent gradation, low LA abrasion, and uninterrupted supply to meet continuous paving windows.
Citadel Stone role: Citadel operated quarry and multi-stage crushing circuits to deliver DOT-specified coarse aggregate and graded base mixes. We provided per-lot lab certificates (gradation, LA abrasion, specific gravity) and implemented stockpile blending protocols to avoid segregation. Citadel coordinated truck scheduling with the contractor and the asphalt plant to prevent production stoppages.
Installation & coordination: Field reps performed spot gradation checks at the plant, advised on moisture conditioning for optimal compaction, and supported the contractor with lift-thickness and roller pass recommendations to meet density targets.
Outcome & benefits: Pavement lifts achieved design density and rut-resistance with fewer compaction passes. The paving contractor credited Citadel’s supply reliability and QA documentation for avoiding costly idle time.
Willow Creek Village — coordinated basalt pavers, coping & interior tiles for a residential masterplan
Project brief & challenge: A masterplanned community required a unified basalt material palette across pedestrian streets (pavers), low wall coping for terraces and honed basalt tiles for selected interior lobbies. The developer wanted consistent color/finish across product types and a single supplier to simplify procurement.
Citadel Stone role: Citadel served as the single-source stone supplier and technical coordinator, producing cross-product finish schedules, color-matched samples, templating for countertops and coping, and combined mockups with the architect and builders. We provided tolerance matrices so metalwork and timber seating could be fabricated to match stone reveals.
Installation & coordination: Deliveries were staged to builders’ turnover calendars; Citadel trained paving and tile crews on different substrate interfaces and jointing/sealing protocols; spare inventory was supplied for warranty repairs. A coordinated sign-off process reduced RFIs during turnover.
Outcome & benefits: The village achieved a cohesive, high-quality finish across exterior and interior spaces. Builders reported fewer punch-list items and faster turnover due to Citadel’s integrated supply and templating services.
Seastar Marine Terminal — armor stone, crushed drainage stone & precast coping for quay restoration
Project brief & challenge: A port authority rebuilt a deteriorated quay: large armor stone for breakwater protection, graded crushed basalt for behind-wall drainage, and precast coping with marine anchors for the quay top. Marine logistics, barge handling windows and corrosion resistance were critical constraints.
Citadel Stone role: Citadel produced specified armor classes and graded drainage stone, supplied marine-grade precast basalt coping with stainless-steel anchors and delivered geotechnical test data for designer verification. We coordinated barge transfers, rigging plans and lifting specs with the marine contractor and provided placement guidance to achieve designed interlock and bedding.
Installation & coordination: Materials were staged on temporary platforms to minimize barge time; Citadel issued rigging and placement protocols, supervised initial armor placement and verified drainage layer permeability in-situ. We also provided maintenance and spill-response guidance to terminal operators.
Outcome & benefits: The restored quay met structural and hydraulic performance targets through the first high-sea season with no significant displacement. The port authority praised Citadel’s marine logistics expertise and thorough on-site technical support, which minimized downtime during phased operations.
Conclusion & Citadel Stone CTA
Basalt quarry USA technical data forms the foundation for confident mineral wool feedstock decisions, enabling precise melt chemistry control and consistent product quality. Verified analytical packages with traceable chain-of-custody provide the evidence-based documentation R&D teams and procurement managers require for supplier qualification and ongoing quality assurance.
Citadel Stone delivers comprehensive technical data packages combining certified laboratory analysis, downloadable CSV formats, and rapid sample support for North American mineral wool manufacturers. Our basalt manufacturer and assay team provides the verified documentation and technical expertise required for confident basalt feedstock selection.
Request your verified data pack today: Contact Citadel Stone to obtain complete analytical documentation, trial samples, and technical consultation for your mineral wool applications. Download our assay template and procurement specifications, or schedule a technical briefing with our basalt factory specialists to discuss your specific requirements.
