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Rubber tile pigments are additives mixed into the rubber material during the manufacturing process to give colored rubber floor tiles their final shade and color. The pigments are available in a wide range of colors and are responsible for ensuring that the colored tiles maintain their color and do not fade over time.
Rubber tile pigments are available in two main categories: organic and inorganic pigments. Each of the two main categories has its unique subcategories and colors.
Organic pigments are usually bright and have high tinting strength. They include various kinds of azo pigments, diketopiperazines, and heterocyclic compounds. Organic pigments are known for being resistant to heat and can be used to produce a wide range of rubber tile colors. However, they are not very resistant to chemicals and may be prone to fading when exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.
Inorganic pigments are made from different metal compounds. They are bright and have good tinting strength, but their brightness is not as good as that of organic pigments. Inorganic pigments are more stable than organic pigments and are resistant to chemicals, making them ideal for use in areas where the rubber tiles will be exposed to harsh chemicals. Additionally, they are not prone to fading when exposed to direct sunlight, which makes them suitable for outdoor rubber flooring.
Coloration:
Rubber pigments are responsible for giving the rubber tiles their color. They come in various shades, from bright, playful hues to dull, neutral tones. This wide color selection allows the finished tiles to match the style they need. The pigments can be blended before the tiles are pressed so each tile gets the same tone. Or, pigment can be added to just some of the tiles for a fun pattern. The option gives designers flexibility with color mixes and style.
UV Stability:
UV-stable rubber tile pigments are important for keeping colors vibrant over time, especially in sunny outdoor areas. These special color additives protect the hues from fading when exposed to sunlight for long periods. With UV stability, the tiles maintain their appearance for years rather than turning dull or washed out. This permanence helps rubber flooring keep its aesthetic appeal and visual warmth, even when installed outside in bright conditions.
Durability:
The pigments used for rubber tiles are chosen for their long-lasting colors. They can withstand wear, weather, and sunlight without fading quickly. Even with heavy foot traffic or exposure to UV rays, these durable pigments help maintain the tile's original shade for many years. This color permanence means the flooring stays visually appealing over time, no matter the conditions. It also ensures rubber flooring keeps its aesthetic appeal and visual warmth for commercial spaces with lots of activity.
Heat Resistance:
Some pigments used for rubber tiles can withstand high temperatures without changing. This heat-resistant pigment is important for tiles installed near hot areas, like wood-burning stoves or fireplace openings. With heat-resistant color additives, the tiles won't discolor or degrade when exposed to warmth. This stability helps maintain the tile's appearance and longevity, even in spots that get warm.
Easy Mixing:
The pigments for rubber tiles are easy to blend uniformly into the material. Whether making solid black rubber mats or tiles with speckled multicolor patterns, the colors mix up smoothly. This consistent mixing gives the finished products the desired shade and tone without streaks or spots. Easy mixing allows precise control over the final color, from bright hues to subtle earth tones.
Residential Areas:
Rubber floor tiles are a common choice for residential applications. They are very easy to install, which is a huge advantage for DIY enthusiasts. Also, they are available in different colors, textures, and finishes, which allows customization to suit individual preferences. They are also very durable and provide a cushioned feel under the feet. This makes them ideal for use in areas like; kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and mudrooms.
Commercial Spaces:
Commercial rubber floor tiles are designed for heavy foot traffic and use in commercial and professional settings. They offer high durability and require low maintenance, which makes them a cost-effective flooring option for businesses. They also have excellent slip resistance and cushioning, which enhances safety and comfort in commercial environments. This makes them a popular choice for gyms and fitness centers, offices and workplaces, retail stores, and restaurants.
Indoor and Outdoor Playgrounds and Sports Facilities:
Rubber tiles are ideal for playgrounds and sports facilities because they offer high impact absorption and excellent shock-absorbent properties. This ensures the safety of children in playgrounds and sports activities. Additionally, they provide great traction and reduce the risk of slips and falls. They are also weather resistant, which makes them suitable for use in outdoor playgrounds and spaces.
Healthcare Facilities:
Healthcare rubber floor tiles are designed to meet the specific needs of healthcare environments. They offer high durability and are easy to clean and maintain. This helps to minimize the spread of germs and contaminants. They also have antimicrobial properties that prevent the growth of bacteria and viruses.
Industrial and Laboratory Settings:
Rubber tiles are ideal for industrial and laboratory settings because they offer high durability and wear resistance. They are also slip-resistant and provide excellent traction. This reduces the risk of slips and falls in environments where safety is critical. Additionally, they have chemical resistance, which protects against spills and damage from chemicals and hazardous materials.
Choosing the right rubber pigments for tiles is an important task. It requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure performance, quality, and safety. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a tile pigment:
Intended Use
It is important to know how the tile will be used. Will it be used in high-traffic areas or residential spaces? Pigments for tiles intended for high-traffic areas require quality rubber with high durability. Pigments for tiles used in residential spaces can have fewer durability features.
Safety and Certifications
The pigments' safety is a key consideration. Check for relevant certifications like ISO and CE. These certifications show the pigments have passed standard tests and are safe for use.
Color and Aesthetics
Consider the color of the rubber floor tiles. Choose colors that will complement the space's design and architecture. When it comes to color, the sky is the limit - there are black rubber tiles, green rubber flooring, blue rubber flooring, and many more colors available. Pigments come in different colors, allowing for customization.
UV Resistance
If the area receives direct sunlight, choose rubber tiles with UV resistance. UV-resistant rubber tiles will prevent fading over time, maintaining the floor's aesthetic appeal. UV resistance is also important for rubber flooring in outdoor spaces.
Heat Resistance
Some spaces generate a lot of heat. Therefore, it is important to choose heat-resistant rubber tiles. Heat-resistant tiles maintain their structural integrity, preventing damage like warping or melting.
Moisture Control
Some areas have a lot of moisture, like kitchens and bathrooms. Pigments for tiles used in such areas should have moisture control features. Moisture control prevents the growth of mold and mildew, ensuring a healthy environment.
Easy Maintenance
Most people want spaces that are easy to maintain. Hence, choose rubber pigments for tiles that are easy to clean and maintain. Tiles that require simple maintenance will save time and money in the long run.
Q: How are rubber tiles with pigments made?
A: Rubber tiles with pigments are made by mixing colored EPDM or SBR granules with a binder. This mixture is then poured into molds to create tiles of different shapes and sizes. Once the tiles are cured, they are cut and finished.
Q: What types of pigments are used in rubber tiles?
A: The main types of pigments used in rubber tiles are EPDM and SBR granules. EPDM granules are preferred for their UV resistance and color vibrancy. SBR granules are used when cost is a priority over UV stability.
Q: Are there any special considerations for installing pigmented rubber tiles?
A: Installation of pigmented rubber tiles is similar to non-pigmented tiles. However, to avoid visible seams, it is important to plan the layout carefully. Using tiles from the same dye lot also ensures color consistency across the surface.
Q: Do pigmented rubber tiles require special cleaning products?
A: No. Pigmented rubber tiles can be cleaned with normal pH neutral detergents. Acidic or alkaline cleaners are not recommended since they may damage the rubber or affect the pigment over time.
Q: How long do pigmented colors last on the rubber tiles?
A: Properly formulated pigments can ensure color longevity for several years, depending on exposure to UV light. EPDM granules provide better color stability under sunlight compared to SBR granules.