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How does marble’s translucency vary with thickness?
Marble’s translucency is a fascinating optical property that makes it a prized material in architecture and design. The degree to which light passes through marble depends significantly on its thickness. Thin marble slabs (3–10 mm) often exhibit high translucency, allowing soft light diffusion, which is why they are popular for backlit applications like wall panels and countertops. As thickness increases (15–30 mm), translucency decreases, creating a more opaque appearance while retaining subtle light penetration at the edges.
The variation occurs due to marble’s crystalline structure. Light scatters as it interacts with calcite or dolomite crystals, and thicker slabs absorb more light, reducing visibility through the stone. However, certain marble types (e.g., Statuario or Carrara) maintain higher translucency even at moderate thicknesses due to their purity and fine grain.
Understanding this relationship helps designers choose the right thickness for functional and aesthetic purposes, balancing durability with desired light effects.
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