Ashstone (IT ‘19)

Properties

Material Characteristics

Once set, ashstone has a porous, semi-smooth appearance, and the greyish-white colour that gives it its name. Over time, it becomes more of a sandy brown, but does not lose its sturdiness.
Prior to setting, ashstone resembles a ball of slightly gritty clay or mud, which can be easily shaped or manipulated.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Ashstone is extremely durable, and is said to never fully fail, even if it is damaged. Variants exist for use in all areas, including a version that sets and keeps its strength in water.

Geology & Geography

The type of dirt and ash used in this material’s creation is found solely in Flow sector, having accumulated on its hills and in its mines, while the pale stone or seashells it contains are found in abundance near Wave Sector’s shores.

Life & Expiration

As far as Harvenstonians can tell, ashstone has the potential to last for thousands of years, although it has not yet been tested.

History & Usage

Discovery

Ashstone was first used in Flow and Vine Sectors hundreds of years ago, although the recipe for its creation was eventually lost. In more recent times, a number of Farreachers seem to have rediscovered the material, and use it to shore up buildings in areas prone to flooding or collapse.

Everyday use

While it has been slow to gain traction, ashstone is being used in gradually increasing quantities as part of Wave Sector’s seaside architecture. Meanwhile, in Vine Sector, ashstone has long been a popular choice for public and civic buildings, and has found great use as part of structures used for water transport. In some places, it is also layered over hillside stairs, to prevent them from eroding.

Cultural Significance and Usage

The people of Vine Sector are greatly pleased by ashstone’s appearance and durability. As such, they use it for much of their construction, especially for places where people gather to have debates or appreciate art. The material is strongly associated with rationality, discussion, and communal spirit, as well as cleanliness, honesty, and moral purity.

Distribution

Trade & Market

Relatively few people outside Flow Sector have the capacity to make ashstone, and outside of trade agreements with Wave to swap the finished product for its components or with Vine to import the ash alongside new farming soil no other sectors have much interest in its usage or creation.

Type

Concrete