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Low environmental impact technology

Fugabella® Eco

Ecologically compatible, low environmental impact decoration of all kinds of materials is the highest profile project that Kerakoll has embraced in the floor and wall coverings sector.

For this reason, our engineers are constantly studying solutions of lower environmental impact but which are as functional as they are aesthetically appealing, all of which are essential features of any Kerakoll product.

Covering a surface brings with it the conveying of something, the expression of a trend, a fashion or a lifestyle. Decorating these surfaces with an infinite mix of colour combinations and textures means setting a style in all its nuances, playing with shapes, emphasizing contrasts or ensuring continuity.

The aesthetical, environmental and technical properties of surfaces change as needs change, which is why Kerakoll is committed to researching more advanced and more performing materials.

Eco-friendly mineral grouts for GreenBuilding construction

Fugabella® Eco

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Fugabella® Eco Low environmental impact technologyLow environmental impact technology

GreenBuilding design and constructionGreenBuilding design and construction means creating buildings with a balance that will improve health, quality of life and safeguard the environment.Today technological research can not ignore its ecological sensibilities, which are now being expressed through informed decisions that are ushering in a new way of using existing, alternative or naturally occurring materials.Fugabella® Eco grouts are ECO-classified and marked in accordance with the GreenBuilding Rating, given that they are eco-friendly, mineral materials. Natural, anti-bacterial, fungistatic stabilized, single-component products containing pure natural lime, specifically intended for extremely colour-fast joints, guarantee low emissions of volatile organic substances and can be recycled as inert materials at the end of their life.Fugabella® range ECO mark is a guarantee for designers, application professionals and end users that the product used meets all the eco-compatible requirements of the GreenBuilding Rating.

Fugabella® Eco New Collection, ideal for GreenBuilding.

M

ineral ≥ 60 %

≥ 60% natural material contentAt least 60% of product compo-nents by weight is of mineral ori-gin. Sands and mineral granules have no chemical decay and no biologically harmful interaction; they are therefore considered to have low or neutral impact on the environment and people.

≤ 250 g/ kg

Low CO2 emission, ≤ 250 g/kg

An innovative research programme has made it possible to maintain the same performance while developing next-generation single-component materials with lower binder content, resulting in significant reduction of CO2 emissions into the atmosphere.

Recycled Mineral ≥

30

%

≥ 30% recycled material contentAt least 30% of the total product weight consists of components derived from secondary or recycled raw materials classified as recycled minerals (inert residues of other manufacturing processes).

Low Emission

Low emissions of volatile organic compoundsGEV certified material (EC 1 - EC 2) with low or very low emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) according to the EMICODE regulation.

Recyclable

Can be recycled as inert materialOnce mineral-based materials have hardened, and at the end of their lifecycle, they can be recycled in the category of inert waste. In this way serious impact on the environment and special disposal requirements can be avoided.

ECO mark GreenBuilding Rating found on every package and in the technical documentation of the ECO range

GRE

ENBU

ILDIN

G RATING

The GreenBuilding Rating is a dependable and reliable evaluation method developed by Kerakoll for measuring and improving the environmental performance of building materials.

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EXAMPLE OF GREENBUILDING RATING APPLIED TO

FUGABELLA® ECO 2-12

Description and eco-compatibility benefitsECO mark - GreenBuilding Rating Regulatory MarkingTechnological certificates and tests

a

b

c

d

a

b

c

d

INDICATIONS FOUND ON EVERY PACKAGE

GREENBUILDING RATING LABEL

Rating Class (ECO 3)Eco-friendly criteria for the Inorganic Minerals category Eco-friendly performance values

a

b

c

3

M

ineral ≥ 60 %

Recycled Mineral ≥

30

%

≤ 250 g/ kgLow Emissio

n Recyclable

60% Natural mineral content

Very low VOC

emissions:

Can be recycled as inert material

a

b

c

Indoor allergens such as fungi and bacteria are becoming an environmental contaminant of increasing concern.Scientific studies have in fact correlated their presence in buildings with an increasing number of allergies and asthma in children and young adults. New Fugabella® Eco grouts are naturally healthy and the only ones subjected to micro-bacterial tests confirming their natural antibacterial and fungistatic properties.Micro-bacterial proliferation tests were carried out at CSTB - Centre Scientifique et Technique du Bâtiment (Technical Scientific Centre for Construction) in Marne-la-Vallée, Paris, in collaboration with the Pasteur Institute in Paris and the Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology-Mycology in Brussels.

Fugabella® Eco New Collection, ideal for guaranteeing healthier, more protected environments.

Clean, healthy, safe surfaces

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The new Fugabella® Eco range for the grouting of ceramic tiling contains, exclusive, waterproofing polymers which act on the surface of the grouts, ensuring a superior degree of water repellence. The water-drop effect gives total resistance to the direct action of rainfall and frequent and high-pressure washing. The ISO 13007-3 standard reduced water absorption and the smooth, even finish of surfaces create the ideal conditions for the grout to remain perfect over time and always easy to clean.

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Water-repellence - Low absorption

The new Fugabella® Eco range for the grouting of ceramic tiling has undergone rigorous research and development in order to determine natural antibacterial properties to protect from microbial attack. CSTB, the French Scientific Center for Building Physics, has put together and perfected an original way of simulating grout contamination by using a bacterial and fungal spray.The Fugabella® Eco range has been rated B+ and F+ which indicates the 100% natural bacteriostatic and fungistatic property in reaction to microbial attack.

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Natural antibacterial

The new Fugabella® Eco range of products for the grouting of ceramic tiling develops high levels of surface hardness and compressive strength, which are ensured by a mix of selected, high-performance hydraulic binders and agents which increase crystallisation.In very little time the product reaches high levels of compressive strength and resistance to abrasion meaning surfaces are very quickly safe to walk on.The high degree of flexural strength ensures the grout will withstand even the highest stress applications.

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The new Fugabella® Eco range for the grouting of ceramic tiling has undergone rigorous research and development in order to determine maximum colour consistency. This is achieved by exposing the product to high levels of direct sunlight and also by simulating the same degree of radiation filtered through the glass of a window.Exposure cycles to the full spectrum of solar radiation as prescribed in international standard UNI EN ISO 11341 represent the most critical conditions for grouts used in indoor and outdoor applications.

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Maximum colour fastness

Fugabella® Technology

guarantees quality finishes, total functionality,

and long-lasting durability

High mechanical resistance


5


COLOUR FASTNESS

MECHANiCAL RESiSTANCE

NATURAL ANTiBACTERiAL

WATER-REpELLENCE 1 2 3 4

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Mechanical resistanceISO 13007-3 standard

ISO 13007-3 is the new international standard that specifies the characteristics of grouts for ceramic tiles and natural stones.An interesting new feature affecting the guaranteed durability of materials is the need to satisfy at least one of the additional characteristics concerning reduced water absorption and high abrasion resistance in order to be rated CG2, i.e. as an improved grout.Achieving a high standard of mechanical performance within 24 hours is the new defining feature of fast setting grouts.The new range for the decoration of ceramic coverings, Fugabella® Eco develops very high levels of surface hardness and compressive strength in a very short time.The high degree of flexural strength ensures the grout will withstand even the highest stress applications.

The test determines the maximum breaking load of a grout sample subjected to compression on two opposite surfaces. The standard requires the test to be carried out after normal setting sample grouts have cured for a full 28 days and also after 24 hours for those rated F, i.e. as fast setting. The Kerakoll research department carries out tests after 3, 7 and 14 days of curing. ISO 13007-3 classification establishes a compression value for both types of grout of ≥ 15 N/mm2.

Compressive strength Test method ISO 13007 Part 4.1.4 - 5

Compressive strength after 28 days

N/mm2

15

0

30

45

60

75

38

45

30 30

52

25

32

CG1-CG2

Flex Marmi Scuba 2-12 0-5 2-20 0-2

Compressive strength after 24 h

10

0

15

20

25

30

N/mm2

Fast-acting grouts

Flex20

Marmi23

2-2026

0 3 6 12 18 24 h

5

F


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The test determines the maximum breaking load of a grout sample subjected to flexure at three points. The standard requires the test to be carried out after the sample has cured for a full 28 days.The Kerakoll research department carries out tests after 3, 7 and 14 days of curing.The test piece is subjected to compression force with a load constantly increasing by 50 N/s until the piece yields.ISO 13007-3 classification establishes a flexural value at 28 days of ≥ 2.5 N/mm2.

The test determines the surface hardness of a grout sample subjected to the abrasive action of a steel disk rotated 50 times against the grout surface; corundum powder (hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale) is dropped between the sample and the disk at the rate of 2 g per rotation.The standard requires the test to be carried out after the sample has cured for a full 28 days. The Kerakoll research department carries out tests after 24 hours, 3, 7 and 14 days of curing. The ISO 13007-3 classification is obtained by measuring the length of the opening and the volume (in mm3) of material dislodged is determined using a conversion table. A value of ≤ 1,000 mm3 equals a class A grout with high abrasion resistance.

Abrasion resistanceTest method ISO 13007 Part 4.4

Flexural strengthTest method ISO 13007 Part 4.1.3 - 5

Abrasion strength after 28 days

0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 2000

0-2

2-20

0-5

2-12

Scuba

Marmi

Flex

561

361

427

174

444

262

302

mm3

CG2 CG1

A

Flexural strength after 28 days

0

5,0

10,0

2,5

7,5

12,5

8.0

9.0

7.0 7.0

10

6.0

8.0

N/mm2

CG1-CG2


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The durability of a mineral grout is very closely related to its ability to withstand the passage of water. Water penetration can be countered by developing a material with reduced water absorption and a hydrophobic surface. Water absorption in the absence of pressure is the standard measurement of material porosity and is expressed as a percentage of the weight of water absorbed; this parameter is essential to ensuring the continuity of mechanical performance when stressed with freeze-thaw cycles. Resistance to surface water absorption is normally referred to as water-repellence and is an additional factor with a deciding effect on reduced absorption. A water-repellent surface is called hydrophobic when the contact angle at which a drop of liquid meets the solid surface is greater than 90 degrees, creating what is known as the “water-drop effect”.

Water resistance

The test determines the amount of water absorbed from the surface of the grout in contact with the water through capillary action. The standard requires the test to be carried out after a sample has cured for a full 28 days. The Kerakoll research department carries out tests after 7 and 14 days of curing. The test piece is weighed before being immersed to up to 10mm of its length in a tray of water then weighed again after 30 minutes and 240 minutes. The ISO 13007-3 water absorption classification is expressed as the grammes absorbed through capillary action, which must be ≤ 5 g after 30 minutes and ≤ 10 g after 240 minutes. Values of ≤ 2 g after 30 minutes and ≤ 5 g after 240 minutes give the grout a W rating of reduced water absorption.

Water absorptionTest method ISO 13007 Part 4.2

ISO 13007-3 standard

Absorption after 30 minutes

0,4 0,6

1,5 1,30,8

1,9

1

2 g

5 g


Absorption after 240 minutes

5 g

10 g

0,61,6

3,5 3,5

1,82,5

4,5


CG2

CG1

CG2

CG1

W

W


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The test expresses the water-repellence of the grout surface and the degree of wettability by measuring the contact angle at which the liquid meets the solid surface.With no specific or effective standard about grouts currently in place, the Kerakoll research department carries out the test using the sessile drop method, placing a drop of distilled water in contact with a test piece that has cured for 24 hours, 3, 7, 14 and 28 days. The balance of forces generated at the interface determines a contact angle measured using a goniometer.Surfaces of different roughness give rise to different size “water-drop effects” albeit with the same high contact angle and degree of water-repellence.

Surface hydrophobicityWater-drop effect test

Wettabilility (or adhesion) of a liquid on a solid surface can be measured with measuring equipment by calculating the angle of contact of a drop of liquid on the surface.The measuring apparatus, which is primarily used in the painting and textile industries, takes a very accurate measurement of the form of the drop, determining the value of surface tension under static and dynamic conditions. Even though surface hydrophobicity (also referred to as the water-drop effect) is a highly desirable characteristic for cement-based grouts for joints, there are currently no effective or standardized methods of control. To date, none of the methods the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) has proposed have been approved by the member manufacturers. One of the main reasons for this is the objective difficulty

in obtaining standard methods and surfaces, considering the influence of product grain size, cleaning times and intensity of washing.

Focus: measuring the water-drop effect

θ Wettability

0 High

< 90 Partial

> 90 Water-drop effect

>140 Repellent effect

θ

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Colour Theory

Without light there would be no colours; in fact, when light falls on a coloured object, part of the incident waves striking it are absorbed and part are reflected. Light that is perceptible to the human eye is formed of electromagnetic light rays of wavelengths from about 400 nm (violet) to 700 nm (red).The electromagnetic spectrum covers an extensive range of wavelengths. The field of visible light that stimulates the retina of the human eye is only a very small part of the various electromagnetic waves travelling in space. Unlike weight and length measurements, there is no physical scale to measure colour. When we have to describe what type of red we are seeing, we have to add adjectives such as light, bright or vermilion, crimson, and so forth. If the same colour is shown to different people, it is likely they will all respond differently: in fact, the reflected light strikes the human eye and its colour receptors, turning the light into impulses that are transmitted along nerve fibres to the brain which generates the sensory experience we associate with the name of a colour. Hence, each individual perceives colours differently. Colour perception is also affected by light sources, size, background and differences in direction.

In order to standardize colour descriptions a method was required to describe, measure and classify colours numerically; this method is known as the colour space, formed by combining three parameters or attributes:

• Hue (red, yellow, green, blue) • Saturation (bright, opaque) • Lightness (light, dark)

Three-dimensional colour solid

White

Black

Ligh

tnes

s

Hue

Saturation

The hues form the outer ring of the solid whilst the lightness forms the central axis and saturation the horizontal radius.The shape of the colour solid is quite complex because the dimension of the degrees of saturation is different for each hue and lightness, but it can help better visualize the relationship between hue, lightness and saturation.

Colour communication


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Almost everyone knows that if sunlight passes through a prism, light will be refracted into its separate colours, just like a rainbow. This phenomenon was discovered by Isaac Newton. Separating light into its various wavelengths creates a spectrum; the separation of light into a spectrum is called spectral dispersion. The human eye has 3 colour sensors which are sensitive to the 3 primary colours (red, green and blue). Measuring colours by determining the so-called tristimulus values in relation to the visible spectrum is the method used by colorimeters. Spectrophotometers on the other hand measure individual wavelengths using multiple and more sensitive spectral sensors, providing absolute numerical values. Spectrophotometers also solve the problem of different light sources and therefore the problem known as metamerism (i.e. the colour of an object depends on the light source it is seen with). Once figures have been acquired with one light source, the spectrophotometer can convert them for any other saved light source.

Focus: the spectrophotometer

Colour spaces are abstract mathematical models describing the way colours should be reproduced as combinations of numbers, referred to as colour components.The International Commission on Illumination (CIE) has defined different models in an attempt to better standardize colour differences in relation to visual perception.

Colour SpacesWhite+L*

Yellow+b*

+a*Red

Black

Green

BlueThe three-dimensional colour space L*a*b* is currently one of the most widely used systems to define and measure colour, where L* is the vertical axis going from black to white and indicating lightness, and a* and b* being points along the horizontal axis defining the colour coordinates, i.e. colour saturation. Using this colour space generates the information needed to identify a new colour or check the constancy of colour of finished products and raw materials.It is also possible to measure the difference in colour between two samples, indicated as ∆E*ab, which expresses a quantitative variance.

Colour space L*a*b*

The colour space L*C*h uses the same diagram as the colour space L*a*b*, but with cylindrical rather than rectangular coordinates. In this space L* indicates lightness and it is the same L* as in colour space L*a*b*, C* is the chroma and h the angle of hue.This method can be used to quantify chroma C* and angle h indicating hue, to give a qualitative indication of the colour and variance between two samples, and in turn intervene accurately and quickly in the colouring process.

Colour space L*C*h

60

50

40

30

20

10

10 20 30 40 50 60(Red)

+a*

(Yellow)+b*

Tinta

Hue difference

∆ h*

1020

3040

5060↔

Chroma

C*

↔∆ C*

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Colour fastnessUNI EN ISO 11341 standard

With no specific standards for inorganic mineral materials, the Kerakoll research department has established an internal method to assess colour fastness of the Fugabella® Eco range of grouts.UNI EN ISO 11341 standard describes a laboratory method to assess alteration of colours subjected to constant exposure to different light spectrums. The duration of the test is set at 500 hours of continual exposure after a series of preliminary tests on samples showing colour stability after exceeding this limit. To classify colour fastness under ageing, EN ISO 105-A05 standard was used to convert measurements produced by the apparatus into intervals on the gray scale.

Kerakoll laboratories use Q-Sun XENON Test Chamber equipment for accelerated colour ageing tests. This equipment is produced by Q-Lab Corporation, the world leader in the study and manufacture of apparatus to measure the durability of materials exposed to atmospheric agents. The majority of colour degradation is caused by three factors: light, temperature and humidity. Together, these factors can cause more damage than the sum of their individual parts. The apparatus reproduces the full spectrum of sunlight using three xenon light bulbs, including ultra-violet (UV), visible light and infrared (IR); more specifically, it reproduces the solar spectrum from 295nm to 800nm. It can also simulate rain using nozzles which nebulize water as well as high temperature conditions. In this way, the sample can be subjected to thermal shock as well as rain and photo-ageing. Depending on the final destination of the material being tested, three different categories of filters can be selected. The Daylight Filter produces a spectrum of light equivalent to direct sunlight on the earth’s surfaces, and is particularly suited to outdoor applications. The Window Glass Filter produces a spectrum equivalent to sunlight through different types of window glass. This application can also reproduce different types of artificial light and is suitable for indoor applications. The Extended UV Filter is used to produce an extraterrestrial spectrum suitable for aerospace applications.The first two filters comply exactly with the test parameters specified in standards UNI EN ISO 11341 and ASTM G 155.

Focus: Q-Sun XENON Test Chamber

Test carried out by Kerakoll Research Laboratory Kerakoll Research Laboratory

Apparatus used Q-Sun XENON Test Chamber Q-Sun XENON Test Chamber

Filter used Daylight Window Glass

Air temperature 38 ± 3 °C 38 ± 3 °C

Black Panel temperature 55 ± 2 °C 55 ± 2 °C

Radiation 0.51 W/mq·nm 0.39 W/mq·nm

Relative humidity 50% 50%

Test cycle Continuous Continuous

Hours of exposure 500 h(samples measured every 100 hours)

500 h(samples measured every 100 hours)

Reference standard ISO 11341:2004 ISO 11341:2004

Daylight and Window Glass Table


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Test pieces to assess colour fastness were prepared and stored for 7 days in standard conditions.Three samples were prepared for each colour:1. Reference sample for the visual control, to be kept in the dark

in standard conditions2. Sample to be aged with Daylight filters3. Sample to be aged with Window glass filters.Before subjecting the samples to ageing, the colour was measured using a spectrophotometer, and repeated every 100 hours of exposure up to the 500th hour.At the end of the test, two assessments were made:1. Visual: comparing test piece to the reference sample kept in

the dark in standard conditions2. Lab-based: using a spectrophotometer to detect any variation

in the colour coordinates and the ∆EF

Comparing the two measurements proves extremely interesting, given that the apparatus detects even the smallest of differences in colour, whilst an untrained human eye is only able to distinguish differences of 5 to 6 in ∆EF , and a trained eye ∆EF values of up to 3. It is important to understand that the human eye is more sensitive to changes in the grey scale, and in this case can distinguish an ∆EF of 2. Drawing on the provisions of standard UNI EN ISO 105-A05 and using mathematical equations, the ∆EF measured by the lab equipment can be used to calculate the numerical intervals on the grey scale for colour degradation (GSc). The lower the ∆EF , the greater the score obtained.

Colour fastness testColour fastness test

Fugabella® Eco DaylightUNI EN ISO

11341

ASTM G 155

(CATAS)

01 White 5 5

02 Light Grey 4,5 /

03 Pearl Grey 4,5 /

04 Iron Grey 4,5 5

05 Anthracite 4 5

06 Black 3,5 4,5

07 Jasmin 4,5 /

08 Bahama Beige 4,5 /

09 Caramel 4,5 /

10 Terracotta 4,5 /

11 Brown 4 /

12 Walnut 4 /

51 Silver 4,5 /

50 Pergamon 4,5 /

46 Ivory 4,5 /

45 Limestone 4,5 /

52 Dove Grey 4,5 /

44 Cement Grey 4,5 /

48 Coffee 3,5 /

38 Husky 3 /

47 Mediterranean 3 4

15 Ocean 3 /

41 Eucalyptus 5 5

49 Moss 5 /

20 Magnolia 4,5 /

27 Sunset 4,5 /

21 Red 1 1

23 Yellow 2 2

To confirm the validity of the test carried out, grout samples for the entire Fugabella® ECO colour collection were submitted to CATAS, a leading Research Centre and Test Lab equipped to perform colour degradation tests using the method specified in US standard ASTM G 155,

which differs from UNI EN ISO 11341 in only a few parameters but is equally valid to test the colour fastness of our materials.

Focus: the CATAS laboratory

ΔEF GSC

< 0,40 5

0,40 ≤ ∆EF < 1,25 4,5

1,25 ≤ ∆EF < 2,10 4

2,10 ≤ ∆EF < 2,95 3,5

2,95 ≤ ∆EF < 4,10 3

4,10 ≤ ∆EF < 5,80 2,5

5,80 ≤ ∆EF < 8,20 2

8,20 ≤ ∆EF < 11,60 1,5

≥ 11,60 1

EN ISO 105-A05 gray scale intervals table

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Resistance to microbial attack

The tendency to protect people in indoor places from substances that could be hazardous to their health has recently taken on a new intensity, with a similar stepping up of efforts to regulate the sector, with subsequent publication of standards.There are various ways of limiting the growth of such micro-organisms, although some do not guarantee 100% eradication of the underlying cause, as getting rid of one can often lead to another and potentially more dangerous one than the first.We are referring to the use of chemical, antimycotic and bactericide substances, also in the formulation of products for the building industry, which could lead to a wide range of diseases and dysfunctions depending on the active principle used. Several of these biocide substances, which to all intents and purposes are common pesticides, have been classified as potential carcinogens based on their inherent toxicity and tendency to migrate and enter the atmosphere.About 95% of pesticides are used in farming, but despite this, indoor environments are one of the major areas of exposure. Whilst their use in farming is very strictly regulated, there is no similar regulatory system governing indoor environments.In an attempt to better protect human health and the environment, the European Parliament has introduced legislation to regulate the use and sale of biocides, as well as their sustainable use. Faced with the possibility of using chemical substances to prevent the growth of micro-organisms, Kerakoll tackled the problem by pursuing alternative, non-chemical methods. This led to the formulation of grouts with an ecological approach, the structure of which was recognized by a leading institute, the CSTB Microbiology Department (Technical Scientific Centre for Construction, Health sector – Marne-la-Vallée, France).

We know that a large part of micro-organisms do not grow in basic environments, especially those with a pH value greater than 9.Cementitious binder-based mixtures do in fact have a pH value that is much higher than this; hence, if the environment remains basic, the growth of micro-organisms will be inhibited. However, as cement cures and gradually over time, the pH value tends to drop due to salification, i.e. the creation of neutral bonds between the molecules and progressive reduction in the ions. This means that a grout capable of withstanding attack from micro-organisms in the short-term could fail in the long-term.Drawing on the wealth of information Kerakoll has acquired on the physical and chemical behaviour of natural NHL lime, the group’s research department carried out an important study into how adding lime to the formulation of grouts can obtain a higher pH value, and achieve the required natural bacteriostatic effect.

To guarantee a substantial improvement in material durability, the test pieces were treated in a specific chamber in which carbon dioxide was used to subject them to an accelerated ageing process.

Focus: the role of NHL (natural hydraulic lime)

Natural protection against mould, fungi and bacteria


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Bacterial development

Bacteria, also known as germs, represent about one third of all living organisms in the air, and just like other biological contaminants, contribute to the poor quality of indoor air.Bacteria can be split into two categories: gram-negative and gram-positive. The former produce endotoxin, an inflammatory substance associated with conditions that are typical of indoor pollution such as the “sick building syndrome”. There are various species of gram-positive bacteria, including Enterococcus Faecalis one of the microbes currently featured in Kerakoll research. Man is the main vehicle of these bacteria, but they are also found in extremely damp places, such as air-conditioning and dehumidification systems.

Many species commonly referred to as “micro-organisms” (or microbes) can actually be considered “biological contaminants”, given that they are substances of biological origin which can have an adverse effect on the quality of air, both inside and out. The main sources of microbiological contamination in indoor locations are the occupants themselves (people, animals, plants), dust (excellent receptacle for micro-organisms), and the structures and services in buildings. Micro-organisms travel through particles in the air and settle in places that are more favourable to their development. Floors are the most contaminated surfaces of all, given that they are constantly gathering dirt, humidity is often higher on this lower level of indoor spaces, they have many recesses and corners in which air is less likely to circulate and when there are joints between tiles (which normally curve inward), the situation is even worse. The most common indoor biological contaminants are: • Bacteria,spreadbypeopleandanimals,butalsopresentin

places with temperature and humidity levels that favour their growth.

•Fungiandmouldswhichforminsideconfinedspacesduetoproblems of damp.

Microbial attack

Development of fungi and moulds

Fungi are organisms for which it has still not been decided if they belong to the vegetable or animal kingdom. There are 100,000 different species of fungi, of which mould and yeast are just two. They perform an important role in the eco-system, which is to decompose and recycle organic matter. At its origin, mould is so minute that it can only be seen under a microscope. As it grows, small, round particles are produced, i.e. the spores, which mainly spread out into the air and represent the final part of the reproductive cycle of mould. Fungi and moulds are not usually a problem inside buildings until the spores land on a wet or damp structure and start to grow.

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CSTB test procedures

The test involves exposing grout test pieces to the action of specific bacteria and fungi over a set period of time, in controlled temperature and humidity conditions (37 °C - 98% R.H.).After exposure, the test pieces are initially subjected to macroscopic examination then microscopic and biochemical analysis to assess the development and the survival of fungi and bacteria.The examination procedures used proves compliant with the requirements of EN ISO 846 - Evaluation of the action of micro-organisms.For both tests, the results are interpreted by comparing information from both methods, in order to evaluate not just the absence but also the inhibition of the growth.

EN ISO 846 standard

Method A: calculation of vulnerability.Some clean test tubes are exposed to a controlled bacterial spray. If the test tubes do not contain any constitutive nutritional substances, they will not develop. This method is ideal to evaluate the resistance of building products to any kind of attack from bacteria.

Method B: determination of the bacteriostatic effect.The test tubes are soiled with nutritional substances and then exposed to a controlled bacterial spray. Even though the material does not contain any nutritional substances, the bacteria develop in the test tubes.Any attempt to stop them developing on the soiled support highlights the “natural” bacteriostatic activity of the product.

Bacteria

Method A: development method.Some clean test tubes are exposed to a controlled mould spray. If the test tubes do not contain any constitutive nutritional substances, mould does not develop any mycelium, and there is no bio-deterioration of the support. This method is ideal to determine the inertia of building products in the event of attack from fungus when no other organic matter is present.

Method B: determination of the fungistatic effect.The test tubes are soiled under test conditions with the nutritional substances and exposed to a controlled mould spray. Even though the material does not contain any nutritional substances, fungi can develop in the soiled test tubes.Any attempt to stop them developing on the soiled support highlights the “natural” fungistatic activity of the product.

Fungi


17


CSTB Classification Table

BACTERiA

B- vulnerable material, contains nutritional substances that bacteria feed on to develop

B inert material on the clean support, presence of bacterial development on soiled samples

B+ bacteriostatic material, no bacterial development on clean and soiled support

FUNGi

F- vulnerable material, contains nutritional substances that fungi feed on to develop

F inert material on the clean support, presence of fungi development on soiled samples

F+ Fungistatic material, no fungi development on clean and soiled support

Spraying microbes to spread them rather than using a more common liquid method deposits the micro-organisms more forcefully as well as being a more faithful representation of what happens in reality. The micro-organisms used in tests were the most common ones seen in the environment and the most hazardous to health, taken from a strain of bacteria in cultures at the Pasteur Institute in Paris (important private foundation for research, prevention and treatment of disease) and from the collection of moulds at the Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology-Mycology in Brussels (IHEM, which holds 20,000 species of fungi and yeast, one of the most important collections in Europe).

B+ (bacteriostatic)TEST REPORT NO. SB-08-097

F+ (fungistatic)TEST REPORT NO. SB-08-103

According to the procedure carried out by CSTB, the grouts in the Fugabella® Eco range were classified B+ e F+; hence, highlighting the natural properties of the product, given that no biocide additives had been added.

The study was carried out in collaboration with the French Institute CSTB (Technical Scientific Centre for Construction), in particular with the Energy-Health-Environment Department / Health Division, which is located in Marne-la-Vallée near Paris.

Founded in 1947, the CSTB is an independent French body placed under the guidance of the Ministry of Ecology, Energy, Sustainable Development and Town Planning.Its main areas of activity are primarily scientific and technical research in the building sector, improving the quality of buildings and environments, as well as training and information building professionals.The Laboratory of Microbiology for Internal Environments (LMEI) of the Department of Energy-Health-Environment was established in 1997 to address the problem of biological contamination in indoor environments. It is one of the leading research institutes in its sector in Europe, making a fundamental contribution to the field such as the much-publicised case years ago which raised awareness of the risk of legionella in public places and private homes.

Focus: CSTB Laboratory of Microbiology

Attack from Bacteria

T E S T E D

TESTREPORTS Attack from Fungi

T E S T E D

TEST REPORTS

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Classic CollectionThe Fugabella® Eco Classic collection offers an array of timeless colours in which the strength of tradition is the salient feature. The classic white in warm tones which originated practically at the same time as the earliest small-format tiles, continues to bequeath purity and geometry to every surface. With ten shades of grey and beige, the many dictates of the infinite number of solutions in residential, commercial or outdoor applications are covered, each time with continuous, harmonic coverings. Then there is absolute black, a strong, forceful colour capable of seamlessly decorating even the darkest of coverings. The twelve Fugabella® Eco Classic colours stand out for how explicitly they convey the language and emotions of classic, timeless coverings.

01 White

02 Light Grey

03 Pearl Grey

04 Iron Grey

05 Anthracite

06 Black

07 Jasmin

08 Bahama Beige

09 Caramel

10 Terracotta

11 Brown

12 Walnut

Classic, harmony and continuity for a timeless style


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Design CollectionThe Fugabella® Eco Design collection showcases the aesthetic appeal of surfaces which express the ultimate in contemporary design and state-of-the-art trends. The Silver, Pergamon, Ivory, Limestone, Dove Grey, Cement Grey and Coffee shades decorate new materials with a fine balance between the expressive and functional dimensions. These revolutionary new colours open up new horizons and represent a new take on beauty and comfort by creating spaces with individuality stamped all over them.

Design, beauty and comfort for original spaces

51 Silver

50 Pergamon

46 Ivory

45 Limestone

52 Dove Grey

44 Cement Grey

48 Coffee

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38 Husky

47 Mediterranean

15 Ocean

41 Eucalyptus

49 Moss

20 Magnolia

27 Sunset

21 Red

23 Yellow

Colors CollectionThe Fugabella® Eco Colors collection denotes colour in its most striking form, captivating and exciting beholders with the vibrant combinations that often seem to be truly pushing the boundaries of colour. Husky, Mediterranean, Ocean, Eucalyptus, Moss, Magnolia, Sunset, Red and Yellow become stand-out features in a room, decorating the most glamorous and edgy of projects. Designers know no bounds with a colour palette that gives them the freedom to create outside-the-box solutions that fit quite happily inside the lines.

Colours, stimuli, and striking, vibrant sensations


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Cla

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Col

lect

ion

01

02

03

04

05

06

07

08

09

10

11

12

51

50

46

45

52

44

48

38

47

15

41

49

20

27

21

23

Fuga

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Eco

2-

12

Fuga

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la®

Eco

P

orce

lana

0-5

Fuga

bel

la®

Eco

2-20

Fuga

bel

la®

Eco

Fl

ex

Fuga

bel

la®

Eco

0-2

Fuga

bel

la®

Eco

Mar

mi

Fuga

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Eco

S

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Fuga

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Des

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Col

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For all aesthetic and functional requirements

New Formula

3

• High hardness

• Water-repellent and low

absorption

• Ideal for porcelain floors tile

New Formula

3

• Water-repellent and low absorption

• Ideal for grouting rectified

porcelain slabs

• Extra-fine, micro grain finish

New Formula

3

• Water-repellent and low

absorption

• Ideal for porcelain floors tile

• Medium grain finish

New Formula

2

• Superior flexibility

• Water-repellent compound

with water-drop effect

• Fine-grain finish

3

• High hardness

• Water-repellent compound

with water-drop effect

• Smooth, polished-effect

finish

3

• Water-repellent compound with

water-drop effect

• Ideal to ensure the integrity of the

most delicate of surfaces

• Smooth, polished-effect finish

New Formula

2

• Ideal for swimming pools

and for permanent contact

with water

• Frost-resistant

• High chromatic stability

• Water-repellent at low

absorption

• Brilliant white colour uniformity

• Extra-fine, micro grain finish

3

MKT

-TEC

cod

e 09

/201

0 EN

www.kerakoll.com

indiaKERAKOLL iNDiA pvt. Ltd - Kotia Nirman 305-A, Veera Desai Rd. - Andheri (w) - Mumbai 400058, India

Tel +91 22 2673 5711 Fax +91 22 2673 3717 [email protected]

United Kingdom - irelandKERAKOLL UK Ltd. - Unit 4, The Croft, Buntsford Gate Business Park - Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 4JE, United Kingdom

Tel +44 01527 578000 Fax +44 01527 578170 [email protected]

internationalKERAKOLL Spa - via dell’Artigianato, 9 - 41049 Sassuolo (MO) Italia

Tel +39 0536 816 511 Fax +39 0536 816 581 e-mail: [email protected]

fugabella eco - tilerstools.co.uk · fugabella® range eco mark is a guarantee for designers,...

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