Deep Abrasion Resistance

DEEP ABRASION RESISTANCE Method only applicable to unglazed ceramic tiles. The testing method and the expression of results are the same as those indicated in the previous European Standards (EN 102). Only one modification has been made regarding the material to be used for the calibration of the instrument. The calibration procedure remains unchanged. For unglazed tiles the Capon test is executed by adding sand or another scratching material between the tile and the machine. The scratch resistance of the surface is also known as the Mohs value. This has not been taken into account in the current norms but is still important in today’s market. The Mohs hardness is determined by observing whether its surface is scratched by a substance of defined hardness.By making scratches in the surface of the tile with different minerals as chalk(1) or diamond (10) the Mohs value is determined. Glazed tiles should have a Mohsvalue  of min.5 and unglazed tiles a value of at least 6. Abrasion resistance is the capacity of the surface to resist to the wear caused by foot traffic or by mechanical equipment . The wear action is strictly linked to the material carried on to the surface (water, sand, mud, etc.) and classified in five categories depending on the areas they are used in: For glazed tiles the PEI test is used to see how  the surface reacts to the circular movements made by the machine.