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Common Uses of Limestone

Limestone is a sedimentary rock made up primarily of calcite. It is found in marine water which is shallow, clear and warm. It is formed by a build-up of shells, algae, coral, and fecal debris from marine animals. Other names for limestone include coquina, travertine, and tufa. Different varieties of limestone have different consistencies, lending it to an assortment of uses.

Roofing
- Limestone which has been reduced to particle size is frequently used to create coating for roofing and shingles which are nontoxic as well as weather and heat resistant. Limestone is a popular choice for roofing material because of its plentiful supply and relatively inexpensive cost.
Cement
- When limestone is heated and mixed with powdered clay, it forms the basic ingredient of cement. The clay and limestone combination is then mixed with sand, water, and crushed rocks to make the hard building material known as cement used for a wide variety of building materials. The presence of limestone in this mixture adds an environmental element by reducing carbon dioxide.
Glass
- Glass is formed by heating limestone, sodium carbonate and sand at extremely high temperatures. The liquid mixture is molded into desired shapes. The shapes are allowed to cool and then become usable sheets of glass.
Animal Feed Filler
- The calcium carbonate that limestone is constructed of is ground and mixed with feed as a dietary substance which helps the chickens produce eggs with strong shells. It is also added to dairy cattle to replace calcium which is lost through milking of the animals.

Rocks & Minerals