Lapitec is the world’s first silica-free stone which is manufactured in Italy and is now available in Australia. The alternative is much more appealing ahead of the Australian government ban on stone cutting in July 2024.

“Fine crystalline-silica powders are dangerous to human health, particularly if inhaled when engineered stone, porcelain, ceramic or other stone products containing silica are cut without the recommended safety procedures being followed in full,” Lapitec managing director, Australia Samuele Tosi says.

“Unfortunately, many tradespeople have been exposed to the risk of silicosis by companies who have not adhered to the strict safety rules. But this risk can now be removed with our new stone which provides a totally safe alternative to existing stone and building products.”

Lapitec is a revolutionary product known as ‘sintered stone’ which is produced through a patented process of intense heat and high pressure. It features a mix of natural minerals that are completely free of silica, resins, inks and petroleum derivatives.

Importantly, Lapitec has been fully tested and certified by both TestSafe Australia as well as the European Commission. The stone can be used for indoor and outdoor kitchens, benches and tabletops, bathrooms, ventilated facades, roofing, cladding, flooring, paving, spas, swimming pools, underwater installations, indoor and outdoor surfaces and custom furnishings.