Dictionary Definition
rottenstone n : a weathered and decomposed
siliceous limestone; in powdered form it is used in polishing [syn:
tripoli]
Extensive Definition
Rotten stone, sometimes spelled as one word, and
also known as tripoli, is fine powdered rock used
as a polishing
abrasive in woodworking. It is usually
weathered limestone
mixed with diatomaceous,
amorphous, or crystalline silica.
It has similar applications to pumice, but it is generally sold
as a finer powder and used for a more glossy polish after an
initial treatment with coarser pumice powder.
It is usually mixed with oil, sometimes water,
and spread on the surface of varnished wood with a felt pad
or cloth. Rotten stone is sometimes used to buff stains out of
wood. Some polishing waxes
contain powdered rotten stone in a paste substrate. For larger
polishing jobs, rotten stone mixed with a binder is applied to
polishing wheels.
It has also been used to polish brass, such as that found on
military uniforms, as well as steel and other metals. Plates used
in daguerreotypes
were polished using rotten stone, the finest abrasive available at
the time.
See also
rottenstone in Polish: Trypla
(skała)