Norms and Standards Europe, 1997 Asian Laminates Symposium Proceedings

Laminated Flooring, a new generation of flooring material, does not have a valid product standard yet. Until now, single product characteristics and test methods were used for marketing purposes and product descriptions, like the most discussed figure - abrasion. In Europe 11 countries are working in the CEN - Committee TC 134, SC2, to establish a standard for “Laminated Flooring”. The scope of this European standard is to specify characteristics and to find a classification system giving practical requirements for areas and intensity of use. The target is to show where laminated floor coverings will give satisfactory service and to encourage the consumer to make a choice after being informed professionally. The standard will also specify requirements for marking and packing and will be expected as a draft in 1998. To reach the different classification requirements, minimum values are given for tests on wear-, impact-, staining- and cigarette resistance. Beside these, general requirements are given to dimension tolerances. Discussions about single test methods or characteristics, especially regarding the abrasion resistance, will be unnecessary for the consumer. The classification system to be established will also be used in other flooring product groups like vinyl and textile carpets in the future.