Our stone, our production

Harnessing Exceptional Limestone from Izaourt
At Socli, the production of natural hydraulic lime (NHL) is deeply rooted in the exceptional quality of limestone extracted from our quarry in Izaourt, located in the heart of the Pyrenees. This limestone is the foundation of our products, enabling us to produce four distinct grades of natural hydraulic lime that meet the diverse needs of restoration, renovation, and construction projects.

The Manufacturing Process: A Tradition of Precision
Our process combines time-honored techniques with modern advancements to ensure consistent quality and performance. The steps include:

1. Quarrying Exceptional Limestone
   The process begins with the careful extraction of high-purity limestone from our Izaourt quarry. This limestone is renowned for its mineral composition, which makes it ideal for hydraulic lime production.
2. Crushing and Sorting
   The raw limestone is crushed and sorted to prepare it for the next stages of processing.
3. Calcination in Kilns
   The crushed limestone is heated in specially designed kilns at temperatures between 900°C and 1200°C. This process, known as calcination, drives off carbon dioxide, leaving behind quicklime.
4. Hydration and Slaking
   The quicklime is carefully hydrated to produce slaked lime. The degree of hydration determines the specific characteristics of the final product.
5. Milling and Classification
   The lime is finely milled and classified to ensure uniform particle size, guaranteeing the highest performance standards for various applications. 

Thanks to the outstanding quality of our limestone, Socli is the only manufacturer producing four distinct grades of NHL:

• NHL 2: Ideal for delicate restoration work and fine finishes.
• NHL 3.5: Versatile and suitable for general construction and repairs.
• NHL 3.5 White: Perfect for aesthetic and decorative applications.
• NHL 5: Designed for robust, high-performance structural applications like limecrete.

Our commitment to quality and sustainability is reflected at every stage of the production process. By using natural resources responsibly and adhering to strict quality controls, we ensure our products meet the highest standards while minimizing environmental impact.

Socli's natural hydraulic lime continues to be the preferred choice for heritage restoration and modern construction alike. Combining tradition, innovation, and environmental responsibility, we deliver products that preserve the past while building a sustainable future.