What Erodes Marble? Do Acid, Base, Lemon Erode Marble?
18.07.2024
Marble, used in kitchen countertops, stairs, floors, and furniture from past to present, creates an aesthetic appearance.
If the marble surface is not cleaned after a certain period of use, this aesthetic appearance will disappear, and the marble will start to erode.
So, what erodes marble? What should be done when erosion occurs? Let's look at the answers to these questions together.
What Erodes Marble?
Marble is one of the most preferred natural stones in our country. We can give many examples among the substances that erode marble.
Erosion problems on marble occur especially due to acidic materials. One of the areas where marble is most used is kitchen countertops. Many products used on kitchen countertops can damage marble.
Especially substances containing acid such as lemon juice, vinegar, and tomatoes can cause erosion on marble. Marble, which normally has an aesthetic and solid appearance, becomes dull, cracked, and of poor quality when it comes into contact with abrasive substances.
Do Acids Erode Marble?
What erodes marble? Since marble is a natural stone containing calcium carbonate, a chemical reaction occurs when it comes into contact with acids.
Acids damage the surface of marble, creating the following negative effects:
- Dulling: Acids erode the shiny surface of marble, causing it to become dull.
- Staining: Natural colors are distorted and stains form on marble that comes into contact with acids. ·
- Cracking: Long-term acid exposure can lead to microscopic cracks on the surface of marble, and these cracks can grow over time, causing more serious damage.
Which Acids Erode Marble?
Among the acids that have an erosive effect on marble are:
- Lemon Juice: Lemon juice, frequently used in kitchens, can quickly erode marble due to its high acid content.
- Vinegar: Vinegar, commonly used for cleaning purposes, can cause staining and dulling on marble surfaces.
- Tomato: Due to its acid content, tomato juice can also cause erosion on the surface of marble.
Do Bases Erode Marble?
Substances containing acid such as lemon, vinegar, and tomatoes can erode marble. So, do bases erode marble? Substances with basic properties (for example, soap) do not have an erosive effect on marble.
Does Bleach Erode Marble?
One of marble's biggest enemies is chemical cleaning products. Especially strong cleaning products like bleach can cause serious damage to marble surfaces.
Bleach is a basic substance with a high pH level and can disrupt the natural structure of marble. It can erode the polish and protective layer on the marble, causing it to become dull and stained. Therefore, using bleach on marble surfaces should be avoided.
How Should Erosion in Marble Be Addressed?
Contact of acidic substances with marble can cause erosion in marble. Therefore, when an acidic substance comes into contact with marble, it needs to be addressed quickly.
Especially hydrochloric acid used for cleaning should never be used on marble floors. If used, it will cause erosion in the marble. When substances such as lemon and coffee stains are spilled on marble, you can prevent erosion by wiping with a clean cloth.
However, if there is a very large-scale erosion, professional service is required.