In the context of continuous scientific research and the application of new technologies, the technological development trends in the artificial quartz stone industry are mainly reflected in the following aspects:
1.Continuous Improvement in Product Performance and Functionality to Highlight Differentiation
•In recent years, the trend in the artificial quartz stone industry has been driven by the advantages of physical properties, chemical properties, and environmental performance. Continuously enhancing these basic properties through ongoing research and development remains a key trend for the future.
2.Highly Realistic Product Appearance
•Currently, natural stones still have advantages in decorative and artistic aspects and hold a significant market share in high-end interior decoration. Improving the laying process, using new molds, and introducing robotic arms for automatic laying are becoming major industry development directions to produce artificial quartz stones with highly realistic (natural marble texture) appearances.
3.Automation and Intelligence in Production
•In China, the production of artificial quartz stones has already achieved automation in processes such as ingredient mixing, blending, cutting, and polishing. Due to the variety of patterns and the complexity of some designs, the laying process has been mechanized but still relies on manual operations for some patterns. The laying process is not only a decisive factor in product quality but also a primary bottleneck limiting production efficiency. Achieving automation in the laying process through technological research and development is crucial for reducing labor costs, improving production efficiency, shortening delivery times, and reducing finished product inventory.
•With the advancement of Industry 4.0, the artificial stone industry is gradually achieving intelligent production.
Using smart robots for stone processing, cutting, and polishing can improve production efficiency and precision while reducing labor costs. Automated production lines can achieve continuous and large-scale production of stone products, enhancing production efficiency and reducing energy consumption and resource usage. Establishing an information management system using information technology can enable real-time monitoring, data analysis, and optimized management of the production process, thereby improving the scientific and effective nature of production management.
Integration of Health and Environmental Protection Concepts in Product Technology
•This includes the harmless screening of raw materials, the adoption of new environmental protection technologies during the manufacturing process to reduce harm to employees, and the harmless disposal of products at the end of their life cycle to minimize environmental impact.
Recently, in response to Australia's ban on ordinary quartz stones, the industry has innovatively introduced "zero silica" quartz stones. "Zero silica" quartz stones eliminate crystalline silica, which is crucial for protecting the health of workers in the stone processing industry. These innovative products are zero-silica, environmentally friendly, and harmless to health, representing a significant change in the artificial stone board industry and greatly enhancing the safety of using artificial stone boards.