Preparation of Stone Castings from Olivine Dolerite

Abstract

The subject of this study is olivine dolerite, a holocrystalline variety of basic volcanic and dike rocks of the normally alkaline rock subclass of the basalt family. Based on innovative methods combining physicochemical computer simulation and experimental studies, we have developed processes for preparing melts and modifying the composition of this magmatic rock for the fabrication of glass-ceramic materials. Such melts offer mineralogical and chemical homogeneity and high flowability, and their crystallization behavior meets requirements for stone casting. The mineralogical composition of such melts can be modified by melting in different atmospheres (oxidizing, reducing, and inert).