Advanced uses of thermoset-marble compounds in construction: first stone pipe organ in the world

This paper describes the techniques used in the creation of a marble pipe organ; emphasizing the use of different thermoset resins in the joining and reinforcing of stone slabs. The mechanical properties (higher resistance to bending and compression, porosity, etc.) and acoustic-musical possibilities of the marble-thermoset pipes are explored. A fully working prototype organ was constructed (an organetto, 60 cm high, weighing 25 kg) built entirely of stone and thermosets, apart from such parts as springs and bellows. The favourable mechanical and acoustic results obtained from this organetto and, subsequently from large pipes, has made it possible to begin work on a marble pipe organ measuring 11 m high and weighing 40 tons. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.