What is sintered stone and what are its properties?

Sintered stone stands out from other types of artificial stone not only because of its unique composition but also due to its advanced manufacturing process. Unlike quartz or solid surface materials, sintered stone countertops offer a sleek, modern appearance while outperforming natural stone in strength and durability. Designers often refer to sintered stone as a next-generation, high-tech surface made from 100% natural minerals.

Curious about what it takes to create a sintered stone slab before it becomes a stylish kitchen countertop or bathroom wall panel? The process begins with a blend of natural raw materials—crushed stone, sand, and clay—finely ground into powder. This mixture is then compressed under extreme pressure—equivalent to the weight of two Eiffel Towers.

Next, the compacted slabs are baked in kilns at temperatures exceeding 1,200°C. This mimics the natural formation of stone under the Earth’s crust, allowing the particles to fuse together and form a dense, durable surface. In the final stage, a high-definition print is applied to create the desired texture and pattern.

Typically, the decorative pattern on sintered stone slabs is applied only to the surface, with the inner material resembling ceramic in its consistency and color. Since the design does not run through the entire body of the slab—unlike marble or granite—some manufacturers are now experimenting with full-body textures that replicate the depth of natural stone.

Each sintered stone brand offers different visual effects, textures, and performance characteristics. These variations depend on the specific mineral blend, baking temperature, and compression methods used. Some slabs are highly impact-resistant, while others may be more delicate. In general, the more intricate the design and texture, the higher the slab’s price.

One of the most celebrated properties of sintered stone is its incredible hardness. It resists scratches, burns, and high temperatures, making it ideal for kitchen countertops, bathroom surfaces, wall cladding, stairs, and even fireplace surrounds.

For optimal performance, sintered stone must be installed on a solid, stable base. If the foundation is uneven or flexible, the rigid surface may crack under pressure. Standard slab thickness is 12 mm, but ultra-thin panels of 3 mm, 4 mm, and 6 mm are available for applications such as furniture facades or exterior walls.

High-quality sintered stone surfaces are so resistant to damage that even direct flame or a sharp knife won’t leave a mark. Some brands also offer graffiti-resistant finishes, making sintered stone a popular choice for public buildings and school facades.

While sintered stone has many advantages, its downsides are mostly relevant to fabricators rather than end users. Due to its density and rigidity, it requires specialized tools and expertise for cutting and installation. Attempting to cut it with standard stone saws can lead to chipping or cracking.

Transporting large sintered stone slabs—often up to 3 meters long—also demands care. If mishandled, they may break or develop micro-cracks. Additionally, for flooring applications, sintered stone must be laid over perfectly leveled concrete, especially if heavy furniture will be placed on top.

Neolith, Dekton, Lapitec