3mm quartz vs ultra poz

Answer 1

3M Colorquartz is an inert aggregate that can be added to any type of pool finish. It is used mostly for decoration but can contribute to abrasion resistance because of its hardness. Because of its uniform size however it cannot be used as a substitute for 100% of the aggregate in the plaster mix. UltraPoz uses dolomitic marble aggregate which has a Moh mineral hardness rating of 5 compared to common plaster mixes which use limestone with a Moh rating of 3. The Moh scale is similar to the pH scale or the Richter scale in that each numerical increment is 10 times greater in strength. To go from a 3 to a 5 means 10x10 or 100 times the strength. The aggregate in UltraPoz is separated in sizes according to U.S.Sieve rankings so it can be blended in proper proportions to give maximum strength with larger sizes and also have finer grains to fill in the spaces. The pozzolan additive which is the highest level that can be added is a submicronic size particle that travels into the capillary pores of the cement to convert the weakest link in the cement componentry, calcium hydroxide, into calcium aluminate and calcium silicate hydrates significantly reducing the weakest link in the chain. The polymer additives, again the highest level that can be added, aid in both bonding to existing substrate and providing protection from chemical attack and water deterioration. UltraPoz is vastly superior to conventional plaster with Colorquartz added. UltraPoz uses some white Colorquartz to further enhance its abrasion resistance but it is the marble, pozzolans and polymers that make it perhaps the best smooth finish available. I have used both products for over 15 years and thousands of pools and this is my opinion after seeing the results many years later.