Polymeric flooring
Metallic marble epoxy flooring from Creative Concrete Coatings.
[edit] Introduction
The term ‘flooring’ refers to the lower enclosing surface of spaces within buildings. This may be part of the floor structure, such as the upper surface of a concrete slab or floor boards, but typically it is a permanent covering laid over the floor. There are many types of flooring materials available. For more information see Types of flooring.
Resilient flooring is loosely defined as flooring manufactured from elastic materials. Products made out of these materials share certain characteristics - they are durable and firm, but they also offer a degree of 'bounce' or resilience. For more information see Resilient flooring.
[edit] Polymers and flooring
One type of resilient flooring is polymer. A polymer is a substance which has a molecular structure built up chiefly or completely from a large number of similar units bonded together. In basic terms, polymers are very long molecules typically made up of many thousands of repeat units.
Many synthetic and organic materials are based on polymers, including; plastics, rubbers, thermoplastic elastomers, adhesives, foams, paints and sealants. Polymer materials account for the highest growth area in construction materials. Well-established applications of polymers in construction include products used for flooring, windows, cladding, pipes, membranes, seals, insulation, and so on. With thousands of commercially available polymers new applications are emerging all the time.
Polymeric floors are poured as liquids and spread out across surfaces to harden and cure. This creates a finish without seams and makes them particularly suitable for industrial or commercial applications.
Examples of polymer materials in flooring include:
- Epoxy flooring (including solid resin and terrazzo flooring) is a combination of polymer resins and hardeners that form a single cohesive material that is at least 2mm thick (otherwise it is known as epoxy coating). It is not only durable but can also cope with harsh usage. It increases the strength and durability of concrete and protects the floor from chemicals. It can also increase the light reflectivity of the floor and bonds easily with cement or concrete.
- MMA (methyl methacrylate) resin flooring is a dual system polymer able to withstand weak acids and other solvents. Epoxy has a gentler cure rate as compared to MMA (methyl methacrylate) floors, and it requires more than one coat to remove porosity of the concrete.
- Urethane (and urethane concrete) flooring systems (also known as polyurethane flooring systems) are used to treat concrete floors and enhance their chemical, water, slip and abrasion resistance.
The introduction of polymeric materials has brought with it new concerns, particularly relating to their longevity, how they are affected by ageing and weathering, the effects of pollution, environmental and sustainability issues, fire performance, re-use, recycling or disposal at their end of life and so on.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.
Heritage staff wellbeing at work survey.
A five minute introduction.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Showcasing the very best electrotechnical and engineering services for half a century.
Welsh government consults on HRBs and reg changes
Seeking feedback on a new regulatory regime and a broad range of issues.