Block Pattern – Deck Tile PP "Silver Grey"

The apparent density of a material describes the ratio of its mass to its total volume, including all pores, cavities, and air inclusions. For WARCO products, this value typically ranges between 600 and 1250 kg/m³. To clearly present the apparent density of a specific product, WARCO uses a scale from 1 to 5, with each scale value corresponding to a specific density range. For example, scale value 2 represents an apparent density between 780 and 840 kg/m³.

The physical density, also known as mass density, indicates the ratio of a substance’s mass to its pure material volume without considering cavities. It is expressed in units such as g/cm³ or kg/m³. For comparison: Water has a density of approximately 1 g/cm³ at 4 °C.

WARCO processes rubber granulate in its products, which is predominantly obtained from recycled used tyres. This so-called ELT granulate (End-of-Life Tyres) mainly consists of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and natural rubber (NR) and has a physical density of around 1200 kg/m³. Some WARCO products also contain, or exclusively consist of, newly manufactured ethylene-propylene-diene rubber (EPDM), with a density of about 1600 kg/m³.

Since WARCO products are not made from solid rubber but from a mixture of rubber granulate and polyurethane binder, pressed into shaped elements with a defined proportion of pores and air inclusions, the specification of apparent density is crucial. It significantly influences the properties of the final product:

• Surface structure and resistance: Higher density leads to a firmer, smoother, and more resistant surface.

• Water permeability: Products with lower density are generally more water-permeable, making them particularly suitable for applications such as sports or impact protection flooring.

• Elasticity: Lower density results in softer and more elastic materials, while denser products are harder and more dimensionally stable.

By precisely adjusting the apparent density to the intended use, WARCO products can be optimally tailored to various requirements – from shock-absorbing impact protection mats to durable floor coverings for heavily used areas.

The abrasion resistance of a floorcovering describes its ability to withstand material loss due to friction or wear. It is a key factor in determining the durability, functionality and quality of rubber granulate flooring.

A scale of 1 to 5 is used to classify abrasion resistance. A score of 1 indicates that the minimum requirements of BS 7188 are met, while a score of 5 indicates excellent abrasion resistance in accordance with this standard. The classification is based on test results obtained from representative products and then interpolated.

Abrasion resistance is determined using a standardised method in accordance with BS 7188. A sample of material is tested using the Taber Abraser, a device in which two standardised abrasive wheels apply a defined pressure and speed to the sample over a specified number of cycles.

To assess material wear, the sample is weighed before and after each test cycle. The difference between the initial weight and the weight after the test represents the incremental weight loss, which is used as a measure of wear.

In addition, the ageing of the material under atmospheric conditions and its behaviour under progressive abrasion are considered over several test cycles. From these tests, the wear index and wear ratio are calculated, giving an indication of the long-term durability and suitability of the floor covering.

Water permeability, also known as hydraulic conductivity, describes the ability of a porous material to absorb and allow the passage of water. In the case of floor coverings, this is measured by the water infiltration rate, which indicates the quantity of water that, under the influence of gravity, penetrates and percolates through the material within one hour.

A scale ranging from 1 to 5 is used for classifying water permeability. A rating of 1 corresponds to a water infiltration rate of 0 mm/h, indicating nearly complete water impermeability. In contrast, a rating of 5 represents high water permeability with an infiltration rate of approx. 1000 mm/h – meaning around 1000 litres of water per square metre per hour can be absorbed. This classification is based on test results from representative tiles that have been interpolated for the respective product.

The water permeability of a material may change over time, particularly if the pore structure becomes blocked by external influences. This can occur, for example, when sand penetrates the surface or due to insufficient cleaning, as is often the case with livestock mats.

High water permeability, with ratings between 3 and 5, offers significant advantages in outdoor applications. In newly designed areas, elaborate drainage systems or surface gradients are often unnecessary, as rainwater can seep directly through the tile covering. This prevents puddle formation and ensures that the area remains permeable. Additionally, since the underlying substrate is not sealed, this property contributes to the environmental friendliness of the covering.

Tiles with low or no water permeability, classified with ratings 1 and 2, are thus only suitable for indoor use or covered spaces.

Resistant to frost and freezing water within the material – no cracking, tearing or breaking.