The role of surface microstructure on the resistance to stains of porcelain stoneware tiles

Relation between the microstructure and technological properties of porcelain stoneware. A review

“…During polishing, the removal of a fine surface layer, which normally varies from 0.5 to 1.5 mm depending of the tile characteristics (specially curvature and decoration process), reveals a new surface composed of numerous open pores that were previously "closed" inside the material (18,55,56). Hence, Tucci et al (57,58) and Dondi et al (59,60) correlated the stain resistance with the bulk and surface characteristics of porcelain stoneware tiles, providing a predictive model based on the surface roughness and on the number size and morphology of the pores. As a result of fast-firing cycles used in their production, porcelain tiles retain a significant amount of residual porosity, which is heterogeneously distributed through the thickness of the tile.…”

Modifications of surface materials and their effects on cleanability as studied by radiochemical methods

“…Poulis et al 1993, Larson et al 2003, Kuisma et al 2005a, Aycicek et al 2006, Redsven et al 2007 Colorimetric Semi-quantitative. Suitable for field and laboratory studies Pitts et al 1998, Williamsson 1999, Tenorio Cavalcante et al 2004, Dondi et al 2005, Kuisma et al 2005a, Kuisma et al 2005b Optical methods (near infrared optical range) Semi-quantitative. Suitable for laboratory studies Benvenuti et al 1999, Minabe et al 2000, Fretwall and Douglas 2001, Tikka et al 2004, Braithwaite et al 2005, Kronberg et al 2007 Atomic Force Microscopy High resolution pictures.…”

“…Verran et al 2000, Adl and Rahman, 2001, Jullien et al 2002, Dondi et al 2005, Hupa et al 2005, Kuisma et al 2005a, Kuisma et al 2005b, Kuisma 2006, Arstila et al 2007, Fröberg et al 2007a, Fröberg et al 2007b …”

“…The cleanability studies are summarised in Table 5. It has generally been concluded that smooth surfaces are easier to keep clean than rougher surfaces (Tenorio Cavalcante et al 2004, Dondi et al 2005, Hupa et al 2005). In a study by Kronberg et al (2007) the soil resistance was improved by applying functional thin fluoropolymers and silane-based coatings.…”

“…In earlier studies roughness affected the cleanability of ceramic tiles. In general rough surfaces were easier to soil and harder to clean than smooth surfaces (Tenorio Cavalcante et al 2004, Dondi et al 2005, Hupa et al 2005). …”