Artificial stone countertops, commonly referred to as engineered stone surfaces, represent a significant advancement in modern building materials. These surfaces are manufactured through a sophisticated process that combines natural quartz aggregates (typically making up 90-95% of the material by weight) with polymer resins (5-10%) and specialized pigments. The mixture is subjected to intense vibration compaction under vacuum conditions and then cured at high temperatures to create a non-porous, homogeneous slab with exceptional physical properties. The resulting material offers a perfect marriage of natural stone aesthetics and enhanced technical performance, making it one of the most popular choices for both residential and commercial applications worldwide.Key Characteristics with Technical DataArtificial stone countertops exhibit several superior physical properties compared to natural stone alternatives:PropertyTechnical DataSignificanceCompressive Strength≥ 40 MPa (5,800 psi)Exceptional resistance to crushing forces and heavy impactFlexural Strength≥ 15 MPa (2,175 psi)Superior resistance to bending and cracking under loadHardness7-8 on Mohs scaleHigh resistance to scratching and abrasionWater Absorption≤ 0.02% by weightVirtually non-porous surface prevents liquid penetrationThermal StabilityResists temperatures up to 150°C (302°F)Withstands moderate heat exposure without damageChemical ResistanceResistant to most household chemicalsUnaffected by common acids, alkal