JAWAHARLAL NEHRU TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY HYDERABAD B.Tech IV DIMENSIONAL STONE TECHNOLOGY Previous Question Paper (January/February - 2023 - R18)

Andhra Pradesh is one of the leading producers of granite in India, with significant resources distributed across several districts. The state is particularly renowned for its multi-colored granites and black galaxy granite. Major deposits are located in the districts of Prakasam, Nellore, Chittoor, Anantapur, and Srikakulam. These regions host extensive reserves of various commercial varieties, including Srikakulam Blue, Chittoor Black, and various shades of pink and grey granites, which are widely exploited for both domestic construction and international export.

Slate is a fine-grained, foliated metamorphic rock widely valued for its durability, low water absorption, and ability to be split into thin, flat sheets. Its primary uses include:

• Roofing: Traditionally used as high-quality roofing tiles due to its excellent resistance to weathering, fire, and moisture.
• Flooring and Paving: Utilized for interior flooring and exterior paving because of its slip-resistant texture and aesthetic appeal.
• Cladding: Employed as a decorative and protective facing material for both interior and exterior wall cladding.
• Architectural Components: Used for items such as window sills, stair treads, hearths, and countertops due to its strength and ease of maintenance.
• Educational and Industrial: Historically used for chalkboards and currently used in specialized industrial applications requiring chemical resistance and electrical insulation.