*1.2. Development of New Materials Based on Artificial Stones*

The creation of novel materials using waste from the ornamental stone industry is economically interesting, in addition to meeting a sustainable ideology in the industrial environment. Today, many researchers use petroleum-based resins, wastes from natural stones cutting process, fine gravel particles, steel, rubber, PET, and iron ore mixed up with epoxy or polyester resin in artificial stone development, obtaining stones with superior properties when compared to natural stones [4,8–10,16].

Erfan [17] developed artificial stone with the incorporation of calcite marble residue and epoxy resin. The results showed 0.01% water absorption and a good filler/resin adhesion.

The use of a polymer matrix from a renewable source, which does not emanate toxic substances, is also another attractive alternative in view of the environmental impact attenuation. Gomes et al. [18] developed artificial stone with waste from natural granite cutting and polyurethane resin, and obtained an artificial stone with properties superior to natural granite.
