#limestone finish concrete

[shopmyclothes]

Modern Pool - Poolhouse

Pool house - mid-sized modern backyard stone pool house idea

[colinkloecker]

Concrete Slab in Toronto Mid-sized 1960s backyard concrete patio design with an addition to the roof

[fleurducap]

Remodeling ideas for a medium-sized mid-century modern concrete glass back porch

[ryuzakemo128]

Nothing but a dream

Pairing: Simon 'Ghost' Riley x Italian! Serial Killer! Housewife! Female Reader

Content Warning: Violence against women, men, homophobia (story relevant),. murder, serial killing, serial killer female reader, biphobioa (against female reader, not from simon.) Possibly other things I might have missed.

Masterlist

Words: 4888

Divider Credit: @cafekitsune + @strangergraphics

Summary: But it wasn’t your sexuality he found out about it was that you are a serial killer who had killed at least twelve people in the past four years alone.

You weren’t stupid. Not by a long shot. Studying to be a nurse before you decided to dive into Forensic Pathology. The thing about death is that it never leaves. It never makes sense, and it never tells you how to deal with it when prejudice is the cause of death. Your older brother, Giovanni, found out the hard way, murdered in the alleyway twenty minutes past midnight just for being homosexual. 

Stabbed 47 times by a man twice his age, who lured him out to a secluded location with the premise of sex. You were a nurse at the time, recently finishing your nursing bachelor’s. You felt like your world fell from underneath you. 

Eventually, you had found the man responsible for his death. After months of tracking him, stalking his habitual places and digging into his personal life. You bought a home in the countryside, hoping it would be further enough away from civilisation and to keep the police from looking into the matter further. A calculated choice in your part. 

Studying into the criminal mind, figuring out what made them tick and how to undo themselves, rendering their flesh into confessions. Dissolving their corpses into a bathtub, a melting pot of acidic chemicals to erase the fact they had ever existed in the first place. 

Your basement, built to contain the mess into one small area, had become a morgue of death, depravity, a silent way for you to make those who hurt others meet their maker. 

The basement is made from concrete and limestone, the room is covered in crimson tiles to disguise the blood stains. The metal bathtub against the far wall to dispose of the bodies after you were done with them. Compost bins in case there were too many bodies to dissolve. Using them into your garden to prevent people from getting the idea you had something to hide.

Your basement had four extractor fans on the ceiling and two in the walls to quickly remove odours, chemical smells, the smell of slowly decomposing body parts inside the compost bins against the wall beside the metal bathtub.

The same place you clean, wash and remove hard stains from your children’s clothes, your clothes and your husband’s clothes.

Industrial cabinets to store the acidic chemicals you used to dispose of the dead bodies in your metal bathtub. Which are also used to store your equipment inside too. Locking them to prevent your children from getting into them and finding them.

On the outside it looked like a normal basement with clothes soaking in the bathtub to get them cleaned properly before you repaired them. The smell of bleach and fabric softener filled the room, but underneath that faint scent was the lingering odor of something much darker. The extractor fans hummed quietly in the background, working tirelessly to maintain the illusion of a typical household space.

You didn’t think he would have noticed by now. Though you kind of hoped you would be able to keep it a secret longer but alas that wasn’t the case with you and your secret basement anymore. You were prepared to be served with divorce papers and the ‘I don’t want you around the kids’ afterwards like you’ve seen with your older brother with his ex-wife after he came out as a homosexual.

Though in your case it is far different, you weren’t straight either but you certainly weren’t gay either. You’re bisexual and that wasn’t really well received by most of your previous partners in the past. So, you stopped telling people your sexuality because you got drained of the same song and dance.

But it wasn’t your sexuality he found out about it was that you are a serial killer who had killed at least twelve people in the past four years alone. You played the role of a housewife to Simon so well he almost didn’t catch it.

Almost.

Whenever he was deployed you would take down your targets. What he didn’t know wouldn’t hurt him right? Tough he did see the mark where the previous victim of yours tried to strangle you to escape. But that didn’t prove anything related to the missing person report he heard over the news, right?

The neighbourhood you two lived in became peaceful, eerily so, people felt safe to walk around at night without having to look over their shoulder. But he wrote down the small changes occurring. Small enough to notice if someone paid close enough attention to the area. But not large enough to be worth causing a fuss over.

At least you weren’t like most of the cheating military wives you often bumped into. With their affair partners in tow. “If you can’t handle being married to a military man than you shouldn’t have done so and I don’t think you are qualified to give me advice on my own marriage when you are so content with ruining your own.” You snapped at one of them with a low growl. You didn’t speak to her again after that conversation.

At least you weren’t cheating on him, right? You were killing people. But you weren’t cheating on him. You were a killer not a emotional soul sucking demon posing as a housewife with several affair partners to suck off while your husband was deployed. You weren’t like the mothers and military wives who serially cheated on their husbands instead of communicating about what they wanted in the bedroom, right?

One thing they hated you for is that you always told their husbands that they were cheating on them. You would rather have no friends in the entire world than to accept that as something morally just or morally correct. If anyone excused them for it you would cut contact with them too.

Simon walked in when one of his exes came over making you absolutely uncomfortable. Saying your curves would be better as a sex worker rather than a housewife. Odd conversation to walk in on. But your discomfort remained palpable. Trying to be a gracious hostess while also contenting with the behaviour of someone who wouldn’t leave you alone.

The thought of being filled up with hot sticky semen forcing his ex-wife to listen to your moans and his grunts to drive home the fact he wasn’t going back to her again. It was becoming far more tempting the more you thought about it. You weren’t ashamed to admit that is what you wanted if he ever asked you in private either.

It would most certainly put his ex into her place, right? Right. It all hinges on whether Simon is willing to go along with it though.

Simon took off his shoes by the door, placing them neatly beside yours. The scent of freshly cut grass and gunpowder followed him into the living room. He glanced at his ex, raising an eyebrow, “What's she doing here?” he asked, his tone cold enough to make you shiver.

Simon knew you were far too polite for your own good sometimes. When you told him she had car troubles, and you paid for it to be towed to a car mechanic? Simon frowned thinking his ex-wife must have caused it on purpose or must have wanted to saw something to him in person. You were never comfortable with having her there. He couldn’t blame you. A stranger in your home? Preposterous. It won’t happen. Ever.

Another good reason why Simon always told his teammates in the task force 141 to call ahead of time. Preferably a three to four hours before they were going to be there in person. You never liked to be caught off guard at the last minute and you found it rude when guests never called before coming over unannounced.

He still remembers when John Price was scolded for it for thirty minutes for doing so. It wasn’t the type of scolding a child would get. No. No. No. It was the kind you would give an adult who should know better than to cross a boundary set by another adult.

John Price had to give her a handwritten apology to say he wouldn’t do it again. It was a first for Simon. His captain hadn’t been scolded like that in his life, not by his own mother or his own wife either. The look on his face when you were serious about his handwritten apology? Priceless. He knew he wouldn’t hear the end of it from Price the next time he’s deployed. But he also knew you had a good reason for it, even if he didn’t know the extent of your secret.

“Price, at least you can say you met my wife.” Simon snickered when he took his mates down to the pub nearby.

“Oh, I’ve met her before.” Price replied, his voice filled with a hint of embarrassment. “I just didn’t know she was like that. She’s so sweet and polite usually. Who knew she had a spine of steel?”

However, this wasn’t like Price’s visit, it wasn’t a misunderstanding and a handwritten apology. It felt far more deliberate on her part. Like she wanted to weasel into your life without having to say a word. It felt wrong. It wouldn’t be you. It would be someone posing like you and pretending like you hadn’t stepped into his life after his divorce.

You told him the children were in after school care, and they won’t be picked up until five. Another way you safeguarded them from external drama happening at home. He couldn't help but breathe a sigh of relief at that, knowing that he had at least a couple of hours before he had to deal with the awkwardness of her presence around them.

It was when you were starting to make dinner, the excuses came piling in and the look you gave Simon every few minutes. Saying, ‘Is she serious?’ and ‘I can’t believe you married that woman.’ His ex was pushing all of your buttons, and it was clear she wasn’t leaving anytime soon. She was trying to start something and you weren’t going to let her ruin your evening.

You muttered something in Italian about your frustration knowing for a fact his ex-wife won’t understand it, “I think you should leave, it's getting late and I don't think your new husband would take kindly to having you in someone else's home.” you remarked your Italian mannerisms starting to show your slight frustration.

Her eyes narrowed at you, and she took a sip of her wine, “Oh, I forgot you speak Italian. Did you learn that to impress Simon? Did you learn how to cook for him too?”

“I beg your pardon. Signora Shelby, what are you implying?” you remarked raising an eyebrow any possible implication she might have had.

Her smug expression didn't falter, “I'm just saying, it's suspicious how conveniently you know everything he likes after he's been married to me for so long.”

“Communication is a wonderful thing, I suggest you try it before you knock it dear. Perhaps you can always try that with your new husband Signor Shelby. I am sure you will have a much less bitter conversation when you learn how to communicate better.” you replied with a polite smile. “Perhaps he might listen to you more if you learned to listen to him better.”

You handed her a book on etiquette and manners, “Maybe this might jog your memory and help you with being polite. “Maybe this will help you in the future, I'm sure you'll find it quite enlightening.” The smug pride finally flowering inside your chest cavity. It wasn’t like you had given her a book on how to be a better housewife. It wasn’t like you made a comment on her looks.

You had dived straight for her faults, her attitude and her lack of respect. You didn’t make a comment on her fertility issues because your own mother had those, and it would be a low blow even you wouldn’t stoop down to.

Simon couldn’t help but chuckle at the sight of his ex-wife’s face turning beet red. He knew you had clawed your way through a dozen of men in the past, both physically and mentally. He was quite surprised she didn’t catch onto your subtle hints and decide to leave sooner. Though, it was quite entertaining watching the two of you spar verbally. It was like watching a cat and a mouse, except the cat had teeth and wasn’t afraid to use them.

Not only that, but you also have a bachelor’s degree in nursing, a master’s degree in trauma surgery and a doctorate in Forensic Pathology. You were smarter than  people loved to assume you were. Something Simon picked up on while he started dating you. You're still a mortuary director for the funeral home in town.

“You know what's suspicious?” Simon's voice cut through the tension, his eyes flashing with a hint of irritation. “It's suspicious that you're here, unannounced, and you're causing trouble. What's your game, Mel?”

You sighed relieved, you said you were getting the children from school and you were going to get dessert on the way home. Fully trusting Simon knew what he was doing with his ex-wife.

Mel looked at Simon with a smug smile, “I just wanted to talk to you, Simon. It's been a while. And you know I never could resist a good surprise.”

“Well, you've had your surprise,” he said firmly, “And now it's time for you to leave.”

Mel, short for Melissa, didn’t take kindly to that, “You changed Simon, you used to like these surprises.”

“I liked your ‘surprises’ when they weren’t you being a thorn in my side,” Simon replied with a stern look. He knew his ex-wife well enough to know that she had an agenda and it wasn’t just to catch up.

Melissa replied, “So you would rather stay with your monster of a wife who kills people at night rather than stay with me?” She batted her eyelashes, which she conveniently had done longer to make herself appear more innocent than she truly was.

It didn’t matter that you weren’t there to defend yourself. It didn’t matter how foul your own deeds were in comparison to his own? They were rather tame, war criminals were in a different lane than serial killers, didn’t she know that? Did she have to bring your own personal issues to the forefront like that?

Simon had his own issues you weren’t blind, just like you had issues he wasn’t blind to either. But in the most twisted way possible. They complimented each other in ways most people wouldn’t possibly comprehend it.

On the way home, your children were oddly silent, “What happened? Did you have fun?” You asked, trying to ease their discomfort.

“Yeah, we had a blast at the park,” your youngest said, her eyes looking down at her lap.

You frowned, “What’s wrong, piccolo fiore?”

Your oldest spoke up, “It’s nothing, Mamma. Just a misunderstanding with a friend at school, I don’t want to talk about it.”

“When you want to, you’re more than welcome to speak about it alright?” you remarked hoping your oldest, Emilia would come to you when she wants to talk about what happened at school that day. Friend problems is something you were familiar with and you had a few of them growing up.

Your twin girls, Giovanna and Emilia, along with your youngest, Lucia, ran to their bedroom to watch their cartoons and do their homework. You had a careful discussion about your night work, Simon decided you had to do it while he was there and he wouldn’t want you doing any of it while it was just you alone in the house.

“Are you sure it would be better that way?” you asked him, as he sipped his earl grey tea in the basement as you finished the laundry.

Simon nodded, his eyes never leaving the TV where the news played quietly in the background, “Yes, I’d rather you didn’t have to deal with any of that...stuff on your own.” His voice was low and gruff, hinting at the weight of his past. You knew he was referring to the times when his military service took him away, leaving you to handle everything alone.

“If it makes you feel better, then I’ll make sure you’re home.” You reassured as you hung up the wet clothes up on the indoor clothesline above the metal tub.

Simon nodded, “It’s not that, I just don’t like the idea of you being down here all alone doing...that.” He gestured to the crimson tiles and the tub.

You listened to his concerns silently, you weren’t the type to talk over someone when they felt like they needed to say something. Simon noticed you were paying attention to him silently as you moved around. It felt like his own accepting silence is displayed to him this time, which is a rarity in his line of work. Yet, here you are, doing just that and you weren’t even in the military.

Simon saw the qualifications you have hanging on the basement wall. He knew you were smart, but he didn’t know just how smart you are. He had no idea you had that much education under your belt.

“What’s with all these degrees?” He asked, looking surprised.

“I got into wanting to help people even before all of this. I was going to be a nurse but I changed my mind after finally getting my bachelor’s. I got into trauma surgery and after getting a master’s in that, I changed my mind again. And finally settled on Forensics Pathologist.” You explained.

He looked at you with a mix of awe and admiration, “You’re a doctor?” He questioned, his voice low, as if he was afraid to disturb the air between you two.

“Yeah. Technically I am.” You answered.

“But you never said anything,” Simon was genuinely surprised, taking a step closer to you, his hand reaching out to touch your shoulder gently.

“You didn’t ask. So, I just didn’t bring it up?”

Simon nodded slowly, “I guess I didn’t think you’d be interested in something like that.”

“I also do body horror art in my spare time.” You told him, making him chuckle as he gazed at your art pieces close to it.

The art prints you had yet to hang up were by Vincent Van Gogh, Francisco Goya, H.R. Giger, Hans Memling, Hieronymus Bosch, and many other artists you keep going back to. Regardless of how much time has passed on.

The Halloween costumes you made your children never failed to make them happy. Last year they were princesses, the year before that they were pirates. This year? They wanted to be spooky ghosts. The sheet over the body kind of ghosts, but with a twist. They had to be Italian ghosts.

“Italian ghosts huh? What does an Italian ghost entail?” you asked.

“They get to wear fancy clothes and eat pasta all day.” Emilia exclaimed, her eyes lighting up with excitement.

You laughed, “I suppose my grandfather would be eating pasta all day.” You remarked talking about their great grandfather.

Simon nodded, “I guess so. Though he’d probably be enjoying a nice Chianti with it, too.”

“And a tiramisu for dessert. He always did have a sweet tooth.” You added with a smile, remembering your Nonno’s love for the dessert. The conversation shifted to lighter topics as Simon helped you fold the clothes. You appreciated his company down here, even though you had grown quite accustomed to the solitude of your basement. It was a stark contrast to the darkness you usually brought down here, but his presence made it feel almost...normal.

The shirt folder folding board flip fold helped you fold shirts faster than you had before you got it from Amazon. Simon watched as you used it to fold the shirts up. You knew your girls would have to start learning how to do their own laundry when they grew older. But you weren't going to rush into that any time soon.

“I didn’t know you liked art so much.” Simon commented, his eyes scanning over the unframed art prints you had neatly stacked against the wall.

“My grandmother liked the painting of Kronos eating his child so much she had one in the sunroom, one in the living room and one in her bedroom.” You told him.

Simon’s eyes widened, “Your grandmother had a morbid sense of humour?”

“Something like that, she had a taste for the darker things and she wasn’t afraid of expressing it either. But she loved, loved cooking, she didn’t care if you wanted things a certain way, if you wanted a dish to your specifics, she will give it to you how you wanted it. My mother often complained, ‘She can’t have mac & cheese for dinner all the time’. But my grandmother knew how to win over her grandkids, especially when we were feeling sick. Her lasagna was heaven sent. She’s the one who taught me how to make it.” You spoke fondly of your grandmother as you folded the last of the laundry.

Simon nodded, “My mother was a bit of a neat freak. Everything had to be just so or she’d have a fit. It’s probably why I’m so... particular about my living space.” He chuckled, looking around the pristine basement.

“Did she tear out your clothes and tell you do it again?” you remarked remembering your mother doing that to your closet.

“More like she’d scrub the floors until they shone brighter than my medals and the kitchen looked like it was from a magazine. But she had a good heart, she just liked things clean.” Simon said with a small smile, “I guess that's why I noticed when something was off down here.”

“Odd considering the four extractor fans.” you stated. You told him your secret months after the fourth date, but you didn't think he took it nearly as serious as he should have. You figured it was the military in him, always so stoic and unfazed by everything.

Simon's gaze sharpened, “Is that what you do down here, when I'm not around?”

“Not lately, I haven't had the cause or reason to do it.” you assured him.

Simon's shoulders visibly relaxed at your words. He knew you had a vendetta but seeing your children grow up without their biological father due to his ex-wives spite was something that had been weighing on him.

“But I know you’ve done it before,” he said, his voice even, his eyes never leaving yours.

“I told you remember?”

Simon nodded slowly, “I do, but I need to know for sure.”

“I have done it before.” you reminded him. “I am capable of doing it. I can and I will do it again if someone threatens me or our kids.”

The basement felt hot and stuffy suddenly, the tension thick enough to cut with a knife. Simon looked at you, his expression unreadable. He had known about your past, but hearing you confirm it so bluntly was still a shock.

“But why?” he finally asked, his voice low and steady. “Why go to such lengths?”

“My reason is still the same. I don't think people should get away with heinous things just because they got rich blood.” you reminded him. “But I haven't done it again or seen something heinous enough to do it again.”

Simon nodded, “And what happens when you do?”

“You will be the first to know.” you promised.

Simon took a deep breath, his hand still on your shoulder, “I want to help you, you know. I don't want you to have to go through this alone.”

You promised to involve him from now on, you promised to make sure he was there in person before you decided to anything on your own and you made sure no matter what happened you would be honest with him.

Any normal person would have scoffed at Simon and tell him to leave you. Turn you in to the police. But Simon isn’t normal. He wasn’t raised in a normal environment either and he wasn’t a typical husband like you would see in the movies either. Suited you just fine. It was better for the both of you this way.

Simon finally saw the three chinchillas and the four bunnies you kept as pets. You didn’t know how he would react to them. But you weren’t prepared for the way his eyes lit up. He had a soft spot for animals. Something that was surprising considering his career choice.

“I told you they were fine.” You smirked, “I brought them in just before the storm rolled in.”

Simon chuckled, kneeling down to stroke the nearest rabbit’s ears. It twitched its nose at him and leaned into the gentle touch. “They’re adorable, I can see why you picked them up. What are their names?”

“The white one is Marshmallow, the black one is Moth, the light brown one is Princess, and the dark brown one is Panini.” You rattled off the names of the rabbits as Simon's eyes lit up with curiosity.

“The three chinchillas are Peppermint, Bee and Mouse.” you remarked.

Simon chuckled, “Mouse for the chinchilla with the little nose?”

“Yeah.” you answered. “The shyest one too.”

As you watched him interact with the animals, something shifted inside you. It was a rare moment of peace and vulnerability from a man who had seen too much war and bloodshed. His rough exterior melted away, revealing the gentle soul that had captured your heart.

The three girls had drawn mouse as a knight a few times, which Simon had found hilarious. He had promised to take them to the nearest castle when he had leave next. It was something they had talked about in passing. The children didn’t know about his line of work. They were too young to understand. You liked that about them, they still had their innocence.

And you always planned to have them keep that for as long as they possibly could. You taught them a few Italian phrases to use when they were annoyed at something or someone. As you believed it was healthier to let them vent out their frustrations to let them know it’s okay to express themselves in a safe and controlled environment, than to hold it all in and let it fester.

Simon heard Emilia say Cazzo when she bumped her toe into her wardrobe, and he couldn’t help but chuckle. You had taught them a few Italian curse words to use when they were upset. Nothing too serious, just enough to let off steam. He turned to you with a playful smile, “You’re a bad influence, you know that?”

“Better here than out there.” you remarked. Which was true, considering what you had seen in your line of work. You had seen people take out their frustrations in the most violent ways possible. This was the least of it.

Simon looked up at you, his hand still stroking the rabbit's soft fur, “I don't want you to be alone in this. If you ever need help...”

“You'll know it long before you say Cazzo.” you reassured.

After dinner you were fixing a dress Lucia had torn that afternoon after she was tripped over by her bully. You had decided to homeschool her, after multiple incidences at her school. Simon sat beside you, watching you skilfully mend the fabric with your nimble fingers. He had never seen you do this before, but the way you handled the needle and thread was mesmerizing.

“You're good at that,” he said, his voice a soft murmur.

“I hope so. I had practice with my teddy bears growing up.” you chuckled, the memory of your first sewing machine flashing through your mind. It was your mother’s old one, but you had made it your own, patching up dolls and clothes until you moved on to more complex things.

“It’s surprising you weren’t a fashion designer.” Simon teased, his eyes never leaving the stitches you were making on Lucia’s dress.

“Considering I only wear neutral and monochromatic shades like black, grey, and white, I think fashion might not be the best choice.” you quipped. “Besides half the naughty things I made would be illegal to wear outside.”

Simon remembered the lace night gowns and the leather outfits you had in your closet, and his cheeks turned a shade of pink. You had always had a flair for the dramatic, especially when it came to lingerie, you were specific in your tastes. Which was one of the many things he found fascinating about you. He took a sip of his tea, his mind wandering to the first time he saw you in one of those ensembles. It had been a surprise, one that had left him utterly speechless.

Things would be fine.

Right? Melissa wouldn’t know what hit her when her own affair came to her new husband’s attention. Sent anonymously to him in a large yellow envelope in the hope it would be enough to scare her into silence. Cruel but necessary. She should thank her lucky stars she was allowed to walk out of your home. Alive.

[bugwolfsstuff]

The Cupid scene but make it unrequited? Valgrace

Meant to finish this yesterday but couldn't get it done in time so heres it now. I'm not completly happy with it but im just glad its done.

-------

"You cannot lie to Cupid, Leo Valdez. If you let your shame and sadness rule you...well, your fate will be even sadder than mine," Favonius said, and Leo could have sworn there was pity in his eyes before the god disappeared in the wind.

Leo felt like he was back in Khione's ice palace. There was no way this wind god he just met knew his deepest, darkest, never-to-be-said-out-loud feelings. Right?.

Right?.

No, he must be talking about something else, and Leo is just being stupid and paranoid. He has to be.

Fortunately, or, more unfortunately, Leo didn't have the time to dwell on the ominous words of wind gods.

Because the ground was shaking. Why was the ground shaking?

So. A voice said.

Something zipped past his face and nicked his ear, throwing him off his feet and into Jason. Pain blossomed in his right ear, and he was pretty sure he was bleeding.

"You okay?" Jason asked, catching him in his strong arms.

Leo winced, holding a hand to his injured ear as he scrambled to his feet, trying not to think about the fact he just fell in Jason's arms. "Yeah, I'm good," he muttered.

You come to claim the sceptre. The voice said behind them, more like stating rather than asking.

Leo turned to where the voice was coming from, but no one was there.

"Cupid!" Jason called, standing at Leo's back with his sword drawn, "Where are you?".

The voice—Cupid laughed. It definitely did not sound like it belonged to a sweet baby angel's. It sounded rich and velvety but also threatening— like an ember in a fire before burning a house to the ground.

Where you least expect me. Cupid answered, As love usually is.

Leo's heart skipped a beat as something invisible slammed into Jason and hurled him across the street. He toppled down a set of concrete steps and sprawled on the floor of an excavated Roman basement.

I thought you'd know better, Jason. Cupid's voice circled overhead like a vulture. You've found true love after all. Or do you still doubt yourself?

"Jason!" Leo screamed, scrambling down the steps.

Jason took his hand and got to his feet. "I'm okay! Just sucker punched by an angel."

Oh, Did you expect me to play fair? Cupid laughed. Make no mistake; I am no angel, Jason Grace. I am Love. I am never fair. 

Oh boy, do I know that. Leo thought dryly before Jason swept him off his feet.

Literally not...not metaphorically.

Leo was swept into Jason's chest as Jason intercepted an arrow that would have gone straight into Leo's chest with his sword. The arrow exploded against the nearest wall, giving them a nice limestone shower.

Of course, Jason wasn't done giving Leo butterflies in his stomach and grabbed his hand, pulling him up the steps and behind another wall as another arrow rained down on them, shattering a column nearby into a thousand pieces.

"Is this guy Love or Death?" Jason growled, still holding Leo's hand.

Thanatos and I are often not so different. Cupid said from somewhere above, except Death is usually kinder.

Leo understood that more than he should: Death is just...well, death. The End. Just boom, you're dead! No more pain. No more problems. And if you're lucky, you get to chill in Elysium for eternity. 

While Love is...terrifying: It hurts, sometimes it doesn't last long, and some just don't get it (cough cough).

"We just want the sceptre!" Jason shouted, poking his head above the stone wall. "We're trying to stop Gaia! Are you on the gods' side or not?"

A second arrow shot at the air dangerously close to Jason's head, landing on the ground near Leo's feet and glowing white-hot. 

The arrow's temperature shot past 2,397 F (Hephaestus power.) before combusting into a geyser of flame. 

Love is on every side. Cupid said. "And no one's side. Don't ask what Love can do for you.

"Great," Jason said. "Now he's spouting greeting cards as well as trying to kill us."

"It's official. Queen was right; Too much Love kills you," Leo joked. If Love is gonna kill him in the end, then at least he wants to make Jason laugh before they both die.

Leo caught a ghost of a smile on Jason's lips before another arrow landed between them, ruining the moment.

You can't hide from Love. It will always find you no matter what. Cupid's voice said nearby.

Leo's hair sparked; the idea of burning the feathers off that smug, overgrown chicken's wings was getting more and more enticing. He knew Cupid was toying with them, enjoying their discomfort as he shot his stupid arrows.

Another arrow narrowly missed him, and something inside of him snapped.

He snatched the arrow up and threw it back where it came from. "Enough games, show yourself!"

Lucky for him, he had good aim. The arrow hit something and hung in the air for a moment before dissolving, leaving no trace: not even a spot of ichor that could help pinpoint his location.

"...Very good, Leo," Cupid said, though it was strained. There wasn't a wound, but it must have hurt. "At least you can sense my presence. Even getting a glance at true love is more than most Heroes manage. Maybe there's hope for you after all".

"So we get the sceptre?" Jason asked.

Cupid laughed. Leo was seriously getting sick of that laugh.

Oh no, there is still much you can do for me.

Jason started to speak, "But—"

An arrow shot through the air, zipping past Jason and hitting Leo square in the shoulder.

"Leo!"

There was a burst of pain in Leo's right shoulder, and suddenly, he was back at the Wilderness School again.

He had just met this cool guy, Jason. He was also a foster kid like him. Jason seemed too good for a school like this. He wouldn't tell him and Piper what he was here for, just that his case worker, Juna— Juno or something — sent him here.

Piper told him later on that she thought Jason was kinda hot.

Leo thought so too but he didn't tell her that. 

Another arrow hit him in the back this time. 

He wasn't sure when Piper and Jason started dating; it had only felt like a day had passed since they met.

He pretended it didn't hurt.

He didn't dare ruin their happiness.

So he just smiled and bared it every time they flirted with each other and told jokes every time they kissed.

"Stop it!" Leo shrieked, "None of it was real! Hera faked everything!"

Not everything, Cupid said softly, and a third arrow dug into his skin.

This time he was on their first quest in Boreas's ice palace.

Khione told them he couldn't come with them to see Boreas because of his fire.

He played it off that he wasn't hurt about it, even though it did. It wasn't the first or last time someone was scared of him.

Jason tried to defend him at first with his hand on Leo's shoulder, which only made him love him more.

And it sting more when Jason walked away holding hands with Piper, leaving him alone with Cal.

It was fine. None of it was real, not even his feelings were, and even if they were, it's not like he could act on them. He was just the funny guy, the mechanic, the seventh wheel. He wasn't supposed to fall for his male best friend, who was already dating his other best friend. He wasn't supposed to want something more than friendship with Jason.

He bit back the tears that were already threatening to fall. The grass at his feet was starting to smoke. "Show yourself!" He screamed.

It is a costly thing, Cupid said, looking on the true face of Love.

Another column shattered. Jason barely scrambled out of its way in time.

My wife Psyche learned that lesson, Cupid said, She was brought here aeons ago when this was the site of my palace. We only met in the dark. She was warned to never look upon me, and yet she could not stand the mystery. She feared I was a monster. One night, she lit a candle and beheld my face as I slept.

Jason said something, but Leo couldn't hear him over the sound of his own heart pounding in his chest. He could still somehow hear Cupid though. Of course, Love was the only thing he could hear other than his heart.

Cupid laughed from somewhere at the edge of the Amphitheater. I was too handsome, actually. A mortal can't look upon a god's true appearance without suffering grave consequences; just look at poor Semele. My mother, Aphrodite, cursed Psyche for her distrust. My poor lover was tormented, forced into exile and given impossible tasks to prove herself. She was even sent to the underworld on a quest to show her dedication. She earned her way back to me, but she suffered greatly.

Leo had no clue what he was talking about, but it sounded like he was a terrible husband.

Jason thrust his sword into the sky like he was a demigod He-man and was about to yell, 'By the power of Jupiter!' and beat up Cupid.

Unfortunately, he did not do that. 

Instead, the ground shook, and lightning blasted a crater where Cupid's voice was coming from.

There was silence, and for a moment Leo thought it was over and that they could get the sceptre and leave. And hopefully, never speak of this day again.

Leo should have known they were never that lucky.

An invisible force—Cupid, knocked Jason to the ground, sending his sword skittering across the road.

A good try, Cupid said, his voice already distant. But love isn't so easily pinned down.

A wall collapsed, Jason barely managed to roll out of the way.

That was enough for Leo.

"Hey!" Leo yelled, waving his arms around. "It's me you want! Not him!. Leave him alone!"

Poor Leo Valdez. The god's voice was patronizing and tinged with disappointment. Do you really know what You want, much less what I want? My beloved Psyche risked everything in the name of Love to win my trust back. And you — what have You risked in my name?

"I'm literally saving the world!" He yelled, clenching his fists, "I've faced way worse! You don't scare me!"

I scare you very, very much. Face me. Be honest.

Jason struggled to get up off the ground, and a piece of Leo's heart broke. This was all his fault. He knew exactly what Cupid wanted. But he didn't want to admit it just yet.

All around Leo, the ground started to heat up. Grass smoked, and stones steamed.

"Give us Diocletian's sceptre." He said, trying to put his best brave face on. "We don't have time for games."

Games? Leo's breath was knocked away as a hand slapped him sideways into a granite pedestal. Love is no game! It is no flowery softness! It is hard work — a quest that never ends. It demands everything you have — especially honesty. Only then does it rewards.

Pain blosomed from Leo's...everywhere. His head spun from the pain, and the ground started to heat up more. Stones were starting to crack, and the grass was starting to spark. All it would take was one more push, and everything would burn.

Jason was up now and had retrieved his sword, "Leo!" he called, "What does this guy want from you?".

Leo's lip trembled. Everything was going so wrong. He didn't want to admit it. He didn't want to tell Jason. "I don't know!" He yelled back, and an arrow embedded itself in the pedestal, inches away from Leo's face.

Tell him, Leo Valdez, Cupid ordered. His voice was starting to get less patient now. Tell him you're a coward, that you're afraid of yourself and your feelings. Tell him why you hide among your machines like your father. Tell him the real reason you run and why you're always alone.

Leo gritted his teeth, his entire body trembling with pain and frustration. Cupid's words cut through him like a knife, exposing the raw truth that he had been desperately trying to bury.

The grass started to burn and the stone's cracks got bigger.

"I... I can't," Leo stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. "I can't tell him."

Cupid's laughter echoed around them, mocking and cruel. "You see, Jason Grace? Your friend is afraid. Afraid of his own feelings, afraid of the truth. He hides behind his jokes and his bravado, but deep down, he knows."

Leo let loose a guttural scream, and like a volcano erupting; everything exploded at once.

Magma burst from the rocks, splitting them wide open. The grass combusted into green flames — Greek fire —he really is going to burn everything down.

"H—haaa"

Leo laughed through the tears. It was really all he could do and all he really ever did. It was funny really; he'd worked so hard to shove everything down, yet it was all destroyed in a fiery explosion in less than an hour.

A nearby tree collapsed dangerously close to Jason as the fire consumed it. "Leo! What is he talking about?" He almost couldn't hear his voice over the fire.

Will you hide forever, Leo Valdez? Cupid taunted, who unfortunately can still be heard because not even fire can shut him up. Will you let fear rule your heart, or will you finally have the courage to face the truth?

He didn't want to face the truth. He was too scared of what would happen. What might Jason say. How he'd react.

He just wanted to keep things the same.

Even if it kills him.?

Leo sobbed, and the flames burned brighter. If this was love then he didn't want it. Or maybe if love was this painful then he deserved it. Another arrow pierced his back—or maybe that was the feeling of his heart breaking more—and more images flashed through his mind.

He was back on that mountain in Colorado. Jason had his arms around Piper, his face scrunched up in concern. Leo pretended it didn't bother him. It was cold, and Piper ended up getting hyperthermia. He had tried to ignore the aching in his chest. He didn't want to think about how much he wanted to be in her place.

After their quest, they left him alone while he worked on the Argo II. He named it after the ship the first Jason sailed on.

It was all for Jason.

He was back on the Argo right after he had fired on New Rome—Jason's home. Everyone was angry with him, and Jason was in the infirmary; some asshole threw a brick at his head. 

He didn't go down to him. He couldn't face Jason.

It was all his fault.

Jason got hurt because of him.

And he didn't even have the guts to face him.

There were more scenes like this flooding his senses. At some point, his brain switched off, and he was just drowning in agony. He couldn't move or speak.

He was weak.

Meanwhile, the flames grew to an inferno of green and reds, drowning out everything. Leo's hair was a white flame. An outline of wings caught fire for a moment before being put out again.

"Interesting!" Cupid's voice said from somewhere above. Do you have strength after all?

"I...I can't," Leo said, though it sounded more like a whimper. He was on his knees now. 

Heh, too weak to admit your feelings and too weak to stand, his mind mocked in Cupid's voice.

Still hiding, Cupid said above, a flame burned an outline of a wing tip before going out again. You do not have the strength.

Leo sobbed. He really was weak. He was going to burn everything down just because he didn't want to admit his feelings.

"Leo" Jason yelled from somewhere. "It's okay! I get it!"

Leo stared at the burning grass below him. It was too hot for tears to fall. Only steam came from his eyes. 

"No, you don't," He said defeatedly. Jason didn't understand. He couldn't understand. If he understood, then he wouldn't be so nice to Leo. "There's no way you understand. If you did you'd hate me".

And so you run away again, Cupid chided, From yourself, from your feelings, and from your friends.

The fire had engulfed Cupid's wings now. But the god laughed cruelly and blew it away.

"Leave him alone Cupid," Jason croaked somewhere. "This isn't your..."

Oh gods, he was hurting Jason again. The smoke is choking him.

Cupid's laugh echoed from above the flames. But oh, it is exactly my business, Jason Grace. Love is me. I am love.

"Leo!" Jason choked out through the smoke.

Oh, you're killing him, you're killing him. Leo's brain screamed. You're a monster, you're such a fucking monster, and you're weak.

"Look, I don't care if you're in love with Piper!" 

He doesn't understand. He doesn't. He doesn't. Leo's brain screamed over and over again.

Cupid laughed again, and Leo's will broke.

"I—I'm not in love with Piper," Leo said, and everything seemed to go silent.

The fire subsided and all of Leo's fight and denial went out at once.

Cupid circled Leo like a shark. His form was visible now—long blond hair, muscular in a simple white frock and jeans, snowy white wings that were singed at the tips. The bow and quiver slung over his shoulder were weapons of war—not toys. His eyes were as red as blood, as if every heart in the world was broken and squeezed dry into one poisonous mixture.

Leo vaguely recalled that some think that Eros was a son of Ares and Aphrodite. And he could see why:

Love and War were the most painful things in the world.

He gestured for Leo to continue.

"I have a crush on you, Jason." Leo said.

The fire died down so Leo could see Jason's face.

And he swore he saw pity in his eyes.

The End

[jeanjauthor]

Duong successfully weaved a 30 meter long cloth, Prepare to sew your own...

Just to make it clear, this gentleman, Duong, made the entire loom by himself.  He made his spinning wheel entirely by himself.  He grew the cotton and spun it entirely by himself...and he made the metal tools entirely by himself.

Now, when I say he made the metal tools, he dug the ore, he made the smelter, he made the forge, he smelted the bloom (the de-slagged ore), he literally hammered the blades and cut and shaped the wooden handles, and even made metal nails.   Admittedly later on he did start buying metal stock & premade nails, and most of those were salvaged metals...but every tool, excepting the electricity stuff, he at least made a version of it by hand...and you can see in the hoe and the shovel and the chisel and the machete that it’s all hand-forged.

Even all the concrete is from limestone that he dug from the cliff across the river & kilned into quicklime, most of the pottery he uses is homemade and home-kilned, and the sand is literally sifted from the riverbed down below.

(His wife. Huang Hoang, will use a chainsaw and pre-made tools & equpiment, but not only is she less muscular than him, she has a different focus for her channel--farming & selling in the marketplace, along with creating herself a livable off-grid home--than what Duong has developed for his, aka creating a farm using primitive skills, aka everything from scratch that he can safely manage.)

By the way, with the exception of the generator, wires, and lighting for his home, and until he finishes this cloth, the clothes on his back...he’s pretty much made all the buildings & planted all the trees and food plants, dug & built the giant fish pond, and stocked it with wild-caught and carefully bred fish, and eveb caught & tamed wild chickens. (The pigs were bought locally, but come from wild boar stock.)  He even has a water-powered grain mill-hammer, and he had a water wheel for powering the bellows for his forge (though at the moment the waterwheel is broken and in need of major repairs).

Oh, and for those who don’t know, chickens are still living in the wilds of Southeast Asia where they originated, so yes, you can catch & tame genuinely wild chickens in Vietnam!

[custom-builders-melbourne]

Unlocking Unique Materials for Building Your Dream Home in Melbourne

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Our skilled artisans can seamlessly incorporate these rescued treasures into your dream home, creating a timeless and eco-friendly design..

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Invite the natural radiance to permeate your living spaces with avant-garde glass features. Our craftsmen specialize in incorporating expansive glass windows and doors, fostering a seamless indoor-outdoor transition that amplifies the overall size of your dream home.

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What sustainable practices do your custom builders in Melbourne employ when incorporating timber into home designs?

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What advantages does steel framing offer in terms of both modern aesthetics and structural durability for custom homes in Melbourne?

Discover the seamless blend of contemporary style and enduring strength that steel framing provides, enhancing the overall appeal and robustness of your dream home.

In what ways can polished concrete be incorporated to add a touch of modern sophistication to various areas within a custom-built home?

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Learn about the artful integration of granite, marble, or limestone into your home's design, bringing the enduring luxury of natural stone to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your dream residence.

[zoeology31]

I’ve decided I need a lower stress hobby in my life, so I’ve taken up a Minecraft project! Currently three days into building a full scale version of Target Field in Minecraft, I’m gonna start posting updates here for posterity and/or anyone interested.

Day 1

I thought about starting with the building outline, but the field was the right decision, it has known dimensions and makes a good immediate anchor point for checking to make sure things look right. There was a lot of math involved here getting the radius of the infield dirt and the angles of the outfield walls to translate to a grid pattern. Lots of trigonometry, lol.

Day 2

Spent a while filling in the outfield warning track before moving back to outline the infield foul territory. Made some adjustments to the infield dirt radius and it looks much better now.

Finished the full field perimeter with the help of more trigonometry, so the playing surface itself is now complete. Also outlined both dugouts, featuring the first of many uses of cut sandstone for limestone. This is where I started to get really heavy into reference images rather than just maps.

Day 3

Started customizing the outfield fences, including a little side project for the bullpen door. After several hours of messing around with green concrete for the fences, I realized 1) it’s really too close to the field color, and 2) it clashes hard with the warped fence I’m using for the dugout and bullpen railings. Luckily the replace block cheat came in clutch as I made a full pivot to dark prismarine.

We’ve got four sections of outfield that are basically their own project now: the limestone corner going up to the stacked bars in left, the bullpen door project, the out of town scoreboard in right-center, and the limestone overhang in right. I’m also trying to find a way to make the flowers look less awkward, but with limited space this might be it.

Stay tuned for more, probably next week as it’s time for my weekly death by work schedule!

[creepy-crowleys]

((Probably going with Demolisher for Crowley's class. Which is... actually the one I think I started her on. The in-game classes don't do much beyond determining your starting weapons - and you can switch from them pretty much once you've finished the tutorial - but I think it works for her. :d))

Demolisher

Responding to cries for help from the alley behind the convenience store, the schoolgirl slips off her uniform jacket, folds it, and stuffs it into her backpack. There will be blood—lots of blood—and she does not want it stained. She slides a ball-peen hammer out as she puts the jacket away and goes off to crack some skulls. The swordsman pivots, opening his soul to Gaia’s will as he slices upward at the looming ak’ab. His blade meets the insect’s carapace with a crack of thunder, nearly deafening the swordsman even as it hurls the ak’ab upward to splatter against the limestone walls of the tomb. She moves faster than the strike team expected. The Orochi sergeant in charge gasps as the old woman they’ve been sent to liquidate instead cuts down two of his men in a single slice. She seems to shrug off bullets and tasers, laughing as she crashes through them. She toys with them—holding back the fire and lightning that course through her—just to enjoy the thrill of battle again. The zombie crouches over its kill, ripping oversized handfuls of steaming-hot flesh from the first hiker’s body. Long has it roamed these backwater hills, growing in might and size as it devoured man and beast alike. It doesn’t even notice the lithe young man in the rainbow shirt until the youth knocks its head clean off with one swing of his blazing golf club. Demolishers channel divinity through implements of war, imbuing their weapons with heavenly radiance and striking like the thunderbolt of Zeus.

Like a Wrecking Ball

Demolishers burn with an inner fire. This wellspring of power is the blessing of Gaia at its simplest and most primal, like a primitive hominid cracking skulls with a jawbone. They smash things and they smash them good. More than any other, the demolisher class includes Bees from all walks of life: athletes, doctors, homemakers, mechanics, musicians, soldiers, students, and more. It is not physical strength that marks a demolisher, nor is there any special training one needs to take a stick and hit things with it. There is only the accursed gift of Gaia. Demolishers may be blunt instruments, but that does not make them incapable of finesse. Besides channeling anima into explosive melee attacks, they also have a natural capacity for protective magics. They can learn to see the invisible, make their skin hard as steel, and surround themselves with mystical barriers. If they live long enough, demolishers can learn to be as adept and subtle as any assassin or punisher.

Property Damage and Noise

Demolishers fight in the front line, leading charges and taking on whole armies by themselves. They’re loud and destructive, and they’re often sent into the field to act as diversions for more discreet operatives. Sometimes, though, the best defense is a good offense … and nothing says “offense” like a one-person wrecking crew.

Where They Fit in the Secret World

... In the Secret World, demolishers could be anyone from anywhere. They manifest their power as walking siege engines, channeling anima to wreak destruction in the most direct way available to any class. ...

Why the Secret Societies Want to Recruit Them

Secret society leaders aren’t immune to the raw, charismatic power of demolishers. Every society wants to find its own modern Hercules, someone who can trade blow for blow with oni and giants. Demolishers often serve an almost symbolic role within societies, representing the epitome of Gaia’s might—and that of the faction for which they work. In the field, demolishers provide excellent support for … squishier … team members. A demolisher in full tactical gear with a breaching maul is a better bullet stopper than a reinforced concrete wall, and much better prepared to smash a draug in the face. Play a demolisher for a simple but effective gameplay loop. Choose this class if you want power by way of channeling tremendous and explosive energy into melee weapons. There’s nothing subtle here.

[juniperpublishersmaterialscience]

Analysis of Mineral Pigments from the Gnishikadzor Area, Southeastern Armenia

Authored by: Yeghis Keheyan

Abstract

The territory of the Republic of Armenia is very rich with ores and different types of deposits, including resources of natural mineral pigments. They differ by large variation of colours and are represented by painted ores, clays, and earths, among which the most significant is the group of paints with yellow, red and brown shades (ochre). Vayots Dzor Province in South-Eastern Armenia is among the rich areas where painted earths are widely spread. Presence of red and brown ochre are very well visible in the south-western part of the province, in the gorge of the Gnishik River, which is also known as the Noravank Gorge, due to the monastic complex of Noravank located here. Red colour rocks in the area of the Noravank Gorge (Gnishikazdor) represented by the sedimentary strata of the Upper Devonian and are determined by the Famennian Stage (375-359 million years). The samples analysed were taken from the foothills of the Noravank Monastery and analysed by different techniques: Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS); FT-IR spectroscopy; XRD diffraction analysis, which allow to indicate the presence of different elements trough contrast variations (atomic number contrast), to determine spectral ranges where absorption peaks were detected, as well as to perform phase identifications. The results show that the concretion is a hard, compact mass of matter formed by the precipitation of mineral cement within the spaces between particles, and is found in sedimentary rock or soil. It is composed of a carbonate mineral such as calcite; an amorphous or microcrystalline form of silica such as chert, flint, jasper or an iron oxide or hydroxide such as goethite and hematite. Implementation of such kind of study is valuable for the future comparison of similar finds from the nearby prehistoric archaeological contexts, where inhabitants exploited red ochre as a pig.

Keywords: Mineral paints; Red ochre; Areni-1 cave; Vayots Dzor Province; Republic of Armenia

Introduction

The mountains of Armenia conceal deposits of ores. Alaverdi (Northern Armenia) and Kapan (Southern Armenia) localities are rich of copper deposits, molybdenum was found in the southeast (Dastakert deposit), in the central and southeastern areas are iron ore deposits (Hrazdan, Abovyan and Svarants deposits). Besides, there are industrial stocks of aluminium-nepheline-syenites, as well as barite with admixture of gold and silver, the deposits of lead, zinc, manganese, gold, platinum, antimony, mercury, and arsenic. There are also rare earth metals: bismuth, gallium, indium, selenium, thallium, tellurium, rhenium. Tuffs (red, orange, yellow, pink, and black), marble, travertines, limestones, are great as building and finishing materials. Semiprecious and ornamental stones are represented by agates, jaspers, amethysts, beryls, rubies, obsidians, onyxes, turquoise.

The area of the country is also rich with resources of natural mineral pigments, where 17 deposits were registered and studied. They differ by large variation of colours and are represented by painted ores, clays and earths, among which the most significant is the group of paints with yellow, red and brown shades (ochre) [1,2].

The colour shade of ochre depends on the type of the iron oxide chromophore. The red ochre contains mainly haematite (Fe2O3), while the yellowish one is rich in hydrated iron oxide goethite, FeO·OH), [3]. The presence of other minerals, such as clay minerals or some metal oxides, can also influence the colour of the ochre. The classification of ochre can be also made according to the matrix composition of kaolinite (Al2SiO5) (OH)4 and/or gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O), and/or sulphate, [4]). Green earth is a clay pigment consisting of hydrated iron, magnesium, and aluminium potassium silicates. Colour varies from a dark, greyish blue green to a dark, dull yellowish green. The colour of green earth is derived from the presence of the following minerals: glauconite or celadonite. As the yellow and red ochre, the green earth or “terreverte” has been used as a pigment all over the world since ancient times [4,5]. They have been found in artworks all over the world and in any historical period, probably due to their availability, high coloring capacities and stability to the light and to the different weather conditions.

Armenian mineral pigments were also used since the dawn of the human civilization and their exploitation by the local inhabitants continued until 1940, after which they were processed on industrial level [2,6].

Vayots Dzor Province in South-Eastern Armenia is among the rich areas where painted earths are widely spread and are represented by large deposits in Agarakadzor and Yeghegnadzor [6]. Meanwhile presence of red and brown ochre are very well visible in the south-western part of the province, in the gorge of the Gnishik River (Gnishikadzor, “dzor” in Armenian means gorge), which is also known as the Noravank Gorge, due to the monastic complex of Noravank (means New Monastery in Armenian) located here The samples analysed in this article was taken from the foothills of the Noravank Monastery, left from the road, where section of red coloured sediment is exposed during the construction of the road (Figure 1). Red colour rocks in the area of the Noravank Gorge (Gnishikazdor) are represented by the sedimentary strata of the Upper Devonian and are determined by the Famennian Stage (375-359 million years). In this area, they are exposed in the core of the so-called Gnishik anticline, spread in the basin of the middle reaches the Gnishik River. The entire stratum of Devonian deposits here is 385 m thick and is represented by ferruginous dark gray and fractured organogenic limestones, which then turn into sandy limestones with a phosphorite content. Ferruginous quartzites with large impregnations of iron oxides are also exposed in ferruginous sandy limestones, shales with carbonate nodules and rich brachiopod fauna: Productella capetatiformis Abrahamian, Plicatifera meisteri, Cyrtospirifer verneuili, Camarotoechia baitaversis, etc (Figure 2).

First evidence of exploitation of similar red coloured ochre from the area was recorded in Late Chalcolithic horizons of Areni-1 cave, located 7km north from the exposure, 2km northeast from the village of Areni, on the left bank of the Arpa River, near the point of its confluence with the tributary Gnishik and at an elevation of 1070m above the sea level. Areni-1 is a threechambered karstic cave. The excavations here began in 2007 and the major significance of this archaeological site was abundantly clear during the initial excavations when very well preserved Chalcolithic (4,300 – 3,400 BCE) and Medieval (4th –18th centuries CE) occupations were exposed. Areni-1 exhibits a transitional culture between Chalcolithic and EBA, which sheds light on the formation and the early stages of the Kura-Araxes culture in the region. Chalcolithic finds from the first gallery of the cave include numerous large storage vessels, some of which contained human skulls – of two adolescent males and a female. Grape remains and vessels typically used for wine storage, together with the results of chemical analyses of the contents, point to Chalcolithic wine production at the site. The cave had been used for different purposes since the end of the 5th millennium BCE: it was a shelter, a storeroom for food; it was used for wine production and for ritual purposes, including burial. All the data indicate clear social complexity and a ritual/productive area. Its strategic location, suitable climate of the Vayots Dzor Province compared to the surrounding mountainous area, and its numerous watercourses and highly fertile soils, make this area especially suitable for human settlement and agricultural development. Indeed, the oldest leather shoe in Eurasia and one of the oldest pieces of evidence for wine production was discovered in the Areni-1 Cave, dated to the Late Chalcolithic – and wine is still today one of the area’s main products [7-15].

Local red ochre was used by the Chalcolithic inhabitants of the cave in different purposes, i.e., for rock-paintings, in symbolic behavior (for coloring the inner parts of the ritual vessels and clay constructions, the compacted floors, as red ochre was the symbol of blood and revival as well as for decorating basketry and pottery [11,13] (Figure 2).

Experimental

The samples from Gnishikadzor or the Noravank were analysed by different techniques. Below are reported the techniques applied to characterize completely these fabulous stones.

Techniques

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS): SEM-EDS micro-morphological and chemical investigations were carried out by a LEO 1450 VP -INCA 300 scanning electron microscope coupled with a electronic probe for X-ray microanalysis, resolution of 3,5nm with the possibility to analyze nonconductive sample by operating in novacuum conditions. The interfacing with EDS gives the possibility to have qualitative and quantitative composition of elements into area observed. For quantitative analysis this method is not sensible under 0.1% in weight. Electron beam energy is 20keV to allow the detection most of the chemical elements starting from boron. Under these experimental conditions the ancient samples have been analysed without any treatment, by using the apparatus in low vacuum. The observations in backscattered electron allow suggest the presence of different elements trough contrast variations (atomic number contrast).

FT-IR spectroscopy: The FTIR microspectra were collected with a Bruker Optic Alpha-R portable interferometer with an external reflectance head covering a circular area of about 5mm in diameter. The samples were placed directly in front of the objective and spots were selected for analysis. The recorded spectral range was 7500-375cm-1 acquired with 200 scans or more, with a resolution of 4cm-1. Spectra reported in the text, however, show only the spectral range where absorption bands were observed (4000-375cm-1). This analysis is non-destructive and non-invasive. The spectra of powdered samples were obtained using the diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) module. In addition, very small amounts of samples were dispersed in potassium bromide (KBr, FTIR grade purity, Fluka) at different concentrations (sample/ KBr 1/100 to sample/KBr 1/1000). These were studied by collecting 200 scans or more in the same spectral range and resolution. Fourier-Transform infrared (FTIR) spectra were recorded using an Alpha FT-IR spectrometer (Bruker) equipped with the Diffuse Reflection Infrared Fourier Transform (DRIFT) module in the spectral range 7500-375cm-1 at a resolution of 2cm-1 cumulating at least 200 scans. The powdered samples were dispersed in potassium bromide (KBr), FT-IR grade of purity, Fluka) in excess. Figures reported spectral ranges where absorption peaks were detected

XRD diffraction analysis: The X-ray powder diffraction analysis has been performed in the angular range 10-90° in 2θ with a Panalytical X’Pert Pro MPD diffractometer (Cu Kα radiation, λ=1.54184 Å) equipped with X’Celerator ultrafast RTMS detector. The angular resolution (in 2θ) was 0.001°. A 0.04 rad soller slit, a 1° divergence slit, and a 20mm mask have been used on the incident beam path, while a 6.6mm anti-scatter slit and a 0.04 rad collimator have been used on the diffracted beam path. Phase identification has been performed with the Panalytical High Score Plus software.

Results and Discussion

XRD spectra (Figure 3) show prevalently the presence of ochre. From phase analysis the following chemical composition was evidenced; CaCO3, SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, Al2S2(OH)4.

Different stones from the same locality have been cut off. The stone has been cut and analyzed in all parts by FTIR. It was very hard to cut it. Internal part was grey and white. The spectra obtained is reported and compared in figure 4. At 536cm-1 is hematite band and at 473cm-1 is iron oxide band. Quartz band is at 799cm-1. Infrared spectroscopy was employed to analyze the exterior red surface of the stone samples. In addition, a small stone was cut in order to examine the inner side, which appeared grey and white.

Specular reflectance produces derivative- shaped peaks in the region below 1200cm-1 because of the restrahlen effect [16]. All spectra show intense band with peaks at 1545 and 1418cm-1 assigned to the C-O stretching mode of calcite (sparitic limestone). The features at 880 and 2515cm-1 also belong to calcite and respectively assigned to O-C-O bending and combination mode. The features in the 1200-1000 cm-1 interval confidently suggest the presence of silicates, probably kaolin, characterizes by the peaks at about 3690 and 3620 cm-1 assigned to C-H stretching modes [17]. At the lower frequency range of the spectra reported in figures 5a & 5b, bands are also observed at 545 and 466cm-1, indicating the existence of iron oxides molecules in the samples [18].

The proposed assignment seems supported by the absence of mentioned features in the spectra of clear and dark points of the samples. In the last case infrared analysis shows the presence of calcium carbonate as unique component of the stone. Compares micro-FTIR (a) and DRIFT spectra (b) of a red point of the Noravank stone. Spectral differences observed can be attributed only to the different techniques employed. In fact, DRIFT spectrum confirms the components individuated in reflectance analysis suggesting only a minor content of calcium carbonate with respect to the silicates content. In addition, the DRIFT spectrum of a sample of Armenian bole is also reported (c).

SEM- EDS. The micromorphological analysis, using SEM the image detector with secondary electron resolution in non-in-air conditioning has obtained a very well-defined aspect compared to the petrographic material, with clear crystalline formations of a solid structure is observable figure 6.

Other parts of the same stone were analyzed by SEM to identify the different structures, as tested with the other techniques used figure 7 (Table 1). Various points in the area shown in figure 7 and are analyzed in EDS as reported in table 2. Several EDS analyses were carried out on several areas of the sample, the more significative are reported in table 2.

What was observed at the SEM-EDS is in line with the other types of investigations, while not providing data on the molecular formulations, but only on the composition of elements, it may be useful to consider the morphological and microstructural aspect, where, for example, it is never found its trigonal crystalline habit, but the observation of powdery material, figure 7, could be associated with its presence in conjunction with quartz and other minerals, which would explain the red color felt when handling the stone.

Hematite gave following oxide compositions; FeO 29.8%, Fe2O3 15, MgO 2,6, Al2O3 8.1, CaO 16.55, SiO2 26.7, K2O 0.55, TiO2 0.4%. The concretions with following oxide composition have been detected FeO 5.63, Fe2O3 2.8, MgO 1.55, Al2O3 11.42, CaO 33.34, SiO2 44.4.

A concretion is a hard, compact mass of matter formed by the precipitation of mineral cement within the spaces between particles and is found in sedimentary rock or soil. Concretions form within layers of sedimentary strata that have already been deposited. They usually form early in the burial history of the sediment before the rest of the sediment is hardened into rock. This concretionary cement often makes the concretion harder and more resistant to weathering than the host stratum. They are commonly composed of a carbonate mineral such as calcite; an amorphous or microcrystalline form of silica such as chert, flint, or jasper; or an iron oxide or hydroxide such as goethite and hematite. They can also be composed of other minerals that include dolomite, ankerite, siderite, pyrite, marcasite, barite, and gypsum. Although concretions often consist of a single dominant mineral, other minerals can be present depending on the environmental conditions, which created them. For example, carbonate concretions, which form in response to the reduction of sulfates by bacteria, often contain minor percentages of pyrite. Other concretions formed as a result of microbial sulfate reduction, consist a mixture of calcite, barite, and pyrite.

Conclusion

Implementation of different techniques applied to characterize completely the mineral pigment sample from Noravank is а valuable data, showing a need to conduct similar analyses for the other deposits in the Vayots Dzor Province and all Armenia. Such a study can help to create a reliable database of the mineral pigments of the country and to compare the results with the similar studies of the samples discovered from the archaeological contexts. The mineral pigments, especially, ochre, have been intensively used by prehistoric and historic populations for different purposes, especially in creation of rock-paintings, decorating the pottery and basketry, as well as in rituals. Exploitation of pigments by ancient societies will shed new light on the questions of utilization of mineral resources in the territory of Armenia and the raw-material circulation in the landscape, as well as aspects of symbolic behaviour during the complex ritual games, which took place inside the caves and other sacral spaces. This also can be significant example of benefit achieved by the combination of different scientific disciplines and tools regarding deeper study of the ancient past (Figure 8).

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Why Is Ground Calcium Carbonate Important in Industry?

Ground calcium carbonate is a widely used mineral in various industries due to its versatility and beneficial properties. It is derived from natural limestone and processed into fine powder for different applications. This material is valued for its high purity, brightness, and chemical stability, making it essential in many industrial processes.

Role in Construction and Building Materials

One of the primary uses of ground calcium carbonate is in the construction sector. It is a key component in cement, concrete, and plaster, enhancing strength and durability. Additionally, it is used in paints and coatings to improve opacity and weather resistance. The fine texture of this material makes it suitable for smooth surface finishes in walls and ceilings.

Applications in the Paper and Packaging Industry

Ground calcium carbonate is a crucial ingredient in paper manufacturing. It helps improve the brightness and opacity of paper while reducing production costs. Many paper mills use it as a filler material to enhance the texture and quality of the final product. In the packaging industry, it is utilized in the production of eco-friendly materials, reducing the dependence on synthetic additives.

Importance in the Plastic and Rubber Industry

The plastic and rubber industries also benefit from ground calcium carbonate as a filler material. It increases the rigidity of plastic products while maintaining their flexibility. In rubber applications, it improves durability and resistance to wear and tear. This makes it an essential component in products like PVC pipes, cables, footwear, and automotive parts.

Contribution to the Pharmaceutical and Food Sectors

Ground calcium carbonate plays a significant role in the pharmaceutical industry. It is commonly used as a calcium supplement in medicines and dietary products. Additionally, it serves as an antacid to neutralize stomach acidity. In the food industry, it acts as a firming agent and pH stabilizer in various products, including baking powders and dairy items.

Enhancing Environmental Solutions

Industries involved in environmental protection also utilize ground calcium carbonate. It is used in water treatment plants to balance pH levels and remove impurities. Additionally, it is effective in air pollution control by neutralizing acidic gases from industrial emissions. This makes it a valuable component in sustainable environmental practices.

Finding Reliable Sources

For industries that rely on high-quality raw materials, sourcing from a trusted ground calcium carbonate manufacturer in India is crucial. Manufacturers ensure that the material meets industry standards and is suitable for different applications. Quality control measures are essential in maintaining the purity and effectiveness of calcium carbonate powder for industrial use.

Conclusion

Ground calcium carbonate is an essential material in numerous industries, from construction to pharmaceuticals. Its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and natural availability make it a preferred choice for manufacturers. With continued advancements in processing technology, its applications are expanding, making it a valuable resource for industrial growth and sustainability.

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SPC Laminate Flooring: The Ultimate Guide to Durability and Style

When it comes to modern flooring solutions, SPC laminate flooring is rapidly gaining popularity due to its durability, affordability, and stylish appeal. Whether you are renovating your home or upgrading your commercial space, SPC laminate flooring offers a versatile and long-lasting solution. Let’s dive into what makes this flooring type stand out and why it might be the perfect choice for your next project.

What is SPC Laminate Flooring?

SPC laminate flooring is a rigid core flooring that combines limestone and stabilizers to create an incredibly durable core. This makes it more resistant to impact, moisture, and wear compared to traditional laminate or vinyl flooring. It features multiple layers, including:

Wear Layer – A transparent top layer that protects against scratches, stains, and daily wear and tear.

Decorative Layer – A high-definition image layer that mimics natural wood, stone, or tile.

SPC Core Layer – A stone plastic composite core that provides stability and strength.

Backing Layer – A base layer that enhances stability and sometimes includes underlayment for sound absorption.

Benefits of SPC Laminate Flooring

Exceptional Durability

SPC laminate flooring is engineered to withstand high traffic areas, making it ideal for homes, offices, and commercial spaces. Its rigid core composition makes it resistant to dents, scratches, and heavy impacts.

100% Waterproof

One of the standout features of SPC laminate flooring is its water-resistant properties. Unlike traditional laminate, which can swell when exposed to moisture, SPC laminate flooring is completely waterproof, making it a great choice for kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

Stylish and Versatile Designs

With advanced printing technology, SPC laminate flooring comes in a wide range of styles, colors, and textures. Whether you prefer a rustic wood look, modern concrete aesthetics, or classic tile finishes, SPC laminate flooring offers endless design possibilities to match any interior.

Easy Installation

Most SPC laminate flooring options come with a click-lock system, allowing for quick and easy DIY installation. There’s no need for glue or nails, and it can be installed over existing flooring, saving time and labor costs.

Low Maintenance

Keeping SPC laminate flooring clean is effortless. Regular sweeping and occasional mopping with a damp cloth are sufficient to maintain its beauty and longevity. It’s also resistant to stains and spills, making it an excellent choice for busy households.

Eco-Friendly Choice

SPC laminate flooring is made with environmentally friendly materials and does not contain harmful chemicals like formaldehyde. This makes it a safe and sustainable flooring option for homes and businesses.

SPC Laminate Flooring vs. Traditional Laminate

FeatureSPC Laminate FlooringTraditional LaminateWater Resistance100% WaterproofNot waterproofDurabilityHighly durableLess durableInstallationClick-lock, easy DIYClick-lock, but requires more careMaintenanceLow maintenanceRequires more upkeepStabilityRigid core, stableCan expand and contract with humidity

Conclusion

SPC laminate flooring Dubai is an excellent choice for those looking for a durable, waterproof, and stylish flooring option. Whether you want a high-end wood finish or a sleek stone look, this flooring type offers a perfect balance of aesthetics and functionality. With its ease of installation and low maintenance, SPC laminate flooring is a practical and long-lasting investment for any space.

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Eco-Friendly Flooring Options for Sustainable Living

When it comes to creating a sustainable and eco-friendly home, every choice matters—down to the flooring. Flooring is one of the largest surface areas in your home, and opting for eco-friendly options can make a significant impact. If you're looking to minimize your environmental footprint without compromising on style or durability, there are plenty of flooring options that can align with your green living goals.

1. Bamboo Flooring: A Fast-Growing, Renewable Resource

Bamboo flooring is one of the most popular eco-friendly flooring choices, and for good reason. Bamboo is a highly renewable resource that grows incredibly quickly—some species can grow up to 3 feet per day! This makes bamboo an excellent alternative to hardwood, which can take decades or even centuries to reach maturity. Bamboo is also durable, easy to maintain, and available in a variety of finishes and styles, allowing you to create a beautiful, sustainable floor in any room of your home.

2. Cork Flooring: Naturally Resilient and Sustainable

Cork flooring is another eco-friendly option that brings both comfort and sustainability to your home. Made from the bark of cork oak trees, cork flooring is not only biodegradable but also incredibly durable and resilient. Cork has natural sound-absorbing qualities, making it a great option for areas where you want to reduce noise, like bedrooms or home offices. It’s also naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and insects, making it a low-maintenance flooring option for those seeking sustainability without the extra effort.

3. Recycled Hardwood Flooring: Repurposing for a Greener Future

If you love the look and feel of hardwood but are concerned about deforestation, recycled hardwood flooring might be the perfect option for you. Reclaimed wood comes from a variety of sources, including old barns, factories, and other buildings that are being torn down. Not only does this prevent valuable wood from going to waste, but it also gives you a piece of history in your home. Recycled hardwood floors often have a unique and beautiful patina that new wood simply can't replicate, making them a stunning choice for any eco-conscious homeowner.

4. Linoleum Flooring: A Natural Choice with Timeless Appeal

Linoleum flooring is a classic, eco-friendly option that has been around for over a century. Unlike vinyl, which is made from synthetic materials, linoleum is made from natural ingredients like linseed oil, cork dust, and wood flour. It’s durable, biodegradable, and available in a wide range of colors and patterns. Linoleum also has antimicrobial properties, making it a great option for kitchens and bathrooms, where moisture and bacteria can be a concern.

5. Concrete Flooring: Minimalist and Durable

For those who appreciate a minimalist aesthetic, concrete flooring is an incredibly durable and low-maintenance option. Concrete is made from natural materials like limestone, clay, and sand, and it can be repurposed or recycled, making it an eco-friendly choice. Concrete floors are also energy efficient, as they can help regulate temperatures in your home, keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. With proper sealing, concrete floors are resistant to stains and moisture, making them a great choice for high-traffic areas.

6. Natural Stone Flooring: Timeless Elegance with Minimal Impact

Natural stone, such as slate, granite, and travertine, is an excellent eco-friendly flooring choice. It’s made from materials that are abundantly available and can last for decades, if not centuries, with proper care. Stone floors are also low maintenance and energy-efficient, as they can help regulate the temperature in your home. When choosing stone, consider options that are locally sourced to reduce the environmental impact associated with transportation.

7. Green Carpet: Sustainable and Comfortable

Believe it or not, even carpeting can be sustainable! Modern advancements in green carpet materials have made it possible to choose carpets made from recycled fibers, like PET (polyethylene terephthalate), which is often derived from recycled plastic bottles. Wool carpets, another eco-friendly option, are naturally biodegradable and require less energy to produce than synthetic carpets. Look for carpets that are certified by organizations like the Carpet and Rug Institute’s Green Label Plus program to ensure you’re getting a product that meets high environmental standards.

Why Flooring Services from Century Restoration and Maintenance are a Great Choice

At Century Restoration and Maintenance in Marietta, GA, we specialize in eco-friendly flooring solutions that meet your needs for both sustainability and style. Our flooring services offer a wide variety of options, from bamboo and cork to recycled hardwood and natural stone, all sourced with your environmental goals in mind.

Not only do we provide high-quality flooring materials, but we also ensure that the installation process is as efficient and sustainable as possible. Whether you’re renovating a single room or redesigning your entire home, our team is dedicated to offering personalized service that focuses on your home’s long-term value and environmental impact.

Choosing the right eco-friendly flooring can transform your living space while supporting a healthier planet. And with the expert flooring services from Century Restoration and Maintenance, you can rest assured that your investment is in good hands. Reach out today to learn more about our eco-friendly flooring options and how we can help you create a home that reflects your values!

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[ad_1] JK Cement Ltd., one of the leading building materials company, announced its successful bid for 250 million tonnes (MnT) of high-quality limestone reserves for the next 40 years in Lakhpat Punrajpur, Kutch, Gujarat, with the Request for Proposal floated by Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Ltd. (GMDC). This marks a strategic milestone for JKCement and further strengthens its growth trajectory and operational footprint in Gujarat.   (L to R): Mr Roopwant Singh, MD, GMDC, Mr. Anuj Khandelwal, Business Head - Grey Cement, JK Cement Ltd.   Speaking on the development, Mr. Amit Kothari, Group President – Group Strategy & New Business Development, JK Cement Ltd., said, “The successful bid for the Lakhpat limestone block underscores our commitment to driving growth and operational excellence in Gujarat. This strategic partnership not only strengthens our resource base but also highlights our focus on ensuring a steady supply of premium raw materials for high-quality cement production. Moreover, this milestone aligns with our vision of sustainable development, enabling us to contribute meaningfully to Gujarat’s industrial ecosystem and economic growth.”   The strategic partnership of limestone block positions JKCement for long-term resource security. The reserves guarantees a steady supply of high-quality limestone, that will enable JKCement for consolidating its presence in the West market in the near future.     About JK Cement Ltd. JK Cement Ltd. is among India’s top manufacturers of Grey and White Cement and home-building solutions globally. For over five decades, JKCement has contributed to India’s infrastructure through product quality, customer focus, and technology leadership, beginning with its flagship grey cement unit in Nimbahera, Rajasthan, in May 1975. The Company’s Grey Cement capacity is 24.2 MTPA, making it a leading manufacturer with a strong presence across 15 states, especially in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. With a total White Cement and Wall Putty Capacity of 3.05 MTPA, JK White Cement is sold in 36 countries around the globe. The Company has a strong international presence with two subsidiaries, JK Cement Works Fujairah FZC and JK White Cement (Africa) Ltd.   In 2023, JKCement launched JKMaxx Paints, offering wall, wood, and metal finishes. In the same year, JKCement expanded into construction chemicals with JK Profix, a waterproofing line, and also entered the Ready-Mix Concrete segment with JK Super Concrete, serving Delhi NCR and set for nationwide growth. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window,document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '311356416665414'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); [ad_2] Source link

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[ad_1] JK Cement Ltd., one of the leading building materials company, announced its successful bid for 250 million tonnes (MnT) of high-quality limestone reserves for the next 40 years in Lakhpat Punrajpur, Kutch, Gujarat, with the Request for Proposal floated by Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation Ltd. (GMDC). This marks a strategic milestone for JKCement and further strengthens its growth trajectory and operational footprint in Gujarat.   (L to R): Mr Roopwant Singh, MD, GMDC, Mr. Anuj Khandelwal, Business Head - Grey Cement, JK Cement Ltd.   Speaking on the development, Mr. Amit Kothari, Group President – Group Strategy & New Business Development, JK Cement Ltd., said, “The successful bid for the Lakhpat limestone block underscores our commitment to driving growth and operational excellence in Gujarat. This strategic partnership not only strengthens our resource base but also highlights our focus on ensuring a steady supply of premium raw materials for high-quality cement production. Moreover, this milestone aligns with our vision of sustainable development, enabling us to contribute meaningfully to Gujarat’s industrial ecosystem and economic growth.”   The strategic partnership of limestone block positions JKCement for long-term resource security. The reserves guarantees a steady supply of high-quality limestone, that will enable JKCement for consolidating its presence in the West market in the near future.     About JK Cement Ltd. JK Cement Ltd. is among India’s top manufacturers of Grey and White Cement and home-building solutions globally. For over five decades, JKCement has contributed to India’s infrastructure through product quality, customer focus, and technology leadership, beginning with its flagship grey cement unit in Nimbahera, Rajasthan, in May 1975. The Company’s Grey Cement capacity is 24.2 MTPA, making it a leading manufacturer with a strong presence across 15 states, especially in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh. With a total White Cement and Wall Putty Capacity of 3.05 MTPA, JK White Cement is sold in 36 countries around the globe. The Company has a strong international presence with two subsidiaries, JK Cement Works Fujairah FZC and JK White Cement (Africa) Ltd.   In 2023, JKCement launched JKMaxx Paints, offering wall, wood, and metal finishes. In the same year, JKCement expanded into construction chemicals with JK Profix, a waterproofing line, and also entered the Ready-Mix Concrete segment with JK Super Concrete, serving Delhi NCR and set for nationwide growth. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s) if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments); if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n;n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0'; n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window,document,'script', 'https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); fbq('init', '311356416665414'); fbq('track', 'PageView'); [ad_2] Source link