| Characteristics | Value |
| Hardness | 6-7 |
| Heat Resistance | Very High |
| Acid Resistance | Good |
| Maintenance | Moderate (waterproofing recommended) |
| Common Uses | Countertops, floors, facades and exteriors |
| Reference standard 15.845/2015 |
Via Láctea processing techniques
The Via Láctea. is a granito gabroide of igneous origin, predominantly colored black with white linear veins of quartz and feldspar, which refer to the appearance of a “galaxy”.
Average Mineral Composition
- Plagioclase and Alkaline Feldspar: 45–55%
- Quartz: 25–30%
- Biotite, hornblende, and mafic minerals: 15–20%
- Accessory minerals: iron oxides, pyroxene
Properties
- Hardness: 6–7 (Mohs scale), excellent scratch resistance.
- Low water absorption: 0,2% — 0,4%.
- High compressive strength: >200 MPa.
- High chemical resistance: It supports household products well and is not attacked by weak acids.
It is considered a material high durability for indoor and outdoor applications, including high-traffic environments.
INFORMATION FOR FABRICATORS (Stone Workers)
Recommended Finishes
- Polished → highlights the contrast between black and white veins, suitable for countertops and interior coverings.
- Brushed/Leather → gives a matte and rustic texture, excellent for kitchens and gourmet areas.
- Honed → uniform matte finish, ideal for floors.
- Flamed + brushed → recommended for outdoor and non-slip areas.
Processing and Cutting
- The Milky Way has a homogeneous and compact structure, being easy machining.
- It is recommended to use diamond discs specifically for granite (e.g.: Disc 350 mm OS–31SS or Diapar DP-1015).
- It allows straight and curved cuts, and can be shaped to rounded and beveled edges without difficulty.
Sealing
Despite its low absorption, the use of water repellents is recommended to protect against oil and grease stains (in kitchens).
Recommended Products:
- •Brazil: Rock Protect – Chemistone, Nano Effect – AKEMI, Idea Gold – Bellinzoni
- •International: Proseal – Tenax, Stain Proof – Dry Treat, Idea Gold – Bellinzoni
Procedure:
- Apply to a clean, dry surface, using a brush or roller, on all exposed surfaces (top, skirts, skirting boards, sides).
- For floors and outdoor areas, apply to all sides before laying.
Adhesive Bonding
- Use epoxy or polyester glues suitable for granite (e.g.: Tenax Fix Top, Bellinzoni Blitz Mastique).
- Adjust the tone with pigments to avoid visible joints.
INSTALLATION
- Countertops: Support every 60 cm on metal corners. Fixing with white PU glue (PU40). Avoid industrial silicones.
- Indoor/Outdoor Floors: Use white ACIII adhesive mortar. Grout with flexible grout. Finish by applying a water repellent after curing.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
- Daily cleaning: water + neutral detergent.
- Never use abrasive products or strong acids (avoid chlorine, bleach, muriatic acid).
- Post-construction: use specific cleaners, such as Quartzolit post-construction, Bellinzoni floor cleaning detergent, or Piso Clean's Alkaline PCS.
FINAL CONSIDERATIONS
The Via Láctea Granite is a striking stone very high durability and low maintenance, ideal for residential and commercial projects looking for sophistication with strong aesthetic contrast. Its heat and scratch resistance make it excellent for kitchens, barbecues, high-traffic areas, and exterior facades.
