cork
foam
0%
-30%
Creep test
highlights the differences between both materials. The thickness of the samples intends to better highlight visually the differences of materials (most of the underlay references have 2-3mm of thickness).
Cork underlays have shown to have a clearly superior performance when compared to the 100 % foam-based solution, maintaining their characteristics. After 100 000 charge cycles, cork only lost 5 % of its thickness, while foam recorded a loss of 55 %.
Creep test Sustained static loads on the floorcovering such as the weight of the floorcovering itself or heavy furniture standing on the floor (e.g. cabinet, piano, aquarium, etc.) may cause the underlay to be reduced in thickness over time. The creep test determines the weight that can be placed on a given floor over time, using as reference a period of 10 years, until 0.5 mm compression is reached.
In a comparative and extrapolation test made on a press at our i-cork factory, between a 10mm sample of cork and another 100 % foam-based sample, the cork sample revealed just after a few days to have a higher resistance to compressive creep due to its resilience. This means that,
as it is compressed over the years, cork maintains its thickness and, consequently, the performance of the system where it is applied, whereas with foams (PE, XPS or PP), whenever pressure results in cell breakage, the underlay loses thickness and effectiveness.
In short, the tests carried out have shown that a cork-based underlay is the best option to ensure the durability and performance of the flooring for an extended period of time. Therefore, the choice of a cork solution translates into savings for the consumer, thus avoiding the need for early floor replacement and consequently the planet. Additionally, with a cork solution, users will be able to enjoy the comfort an underlay has to offer for years to come, just like on the first day it was installed.
Performance and sustainability In addition to performance, from an environmental perspective, cork-based underlays also represent a more sustainable choice than foam-based solutions.
In the case of Amorim’s underlays, according to independent studies conducted by EY consultant, all analyzed products have a negative carbon balance when considering the carbon capture of cork oak forests
and production-related emissions. This means that the carbon capture of cork-based underlays exceeds the CO2 capture resulting from their production.
Our brands: Acousticork and Go4Cork Currently, Amorim Cork Composites offers a wide range of underlays that adapt to all floor types. Whether it is a laminate, wood or ceramic flooring, there is an Amorim underlay that adapts to your flooring needs, offering a quieter and more comfortable environment.
Susana Silva is a chemical engineer with a PhD on sciences of engineering. Currently is Global Technical Manager for flooring at Amorim Cork Composites.
www.amorimcorkcomposites.com
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