INNOVATION
DRIVEN
The tile industry is constantly innovating the design and manufacturing techniques used to produce this versatile product.
One of the ‘holy grails’ of tile design is to produce a tile that is smooth to touch, but has anti-slip qualities, combined with the usual features of inert hardness and stain-resistance.
Biomimicry is a practice that learns from and mimics the strategies found in nature to solve human design challenges.
Scientists looked for inspiration in solving this riddle by looking under a microscope at the adhesive pads of frogs and geckos, which allow these animals to have strong contact with wet surfaces.
The surface of their footpads is evenly covered with fibres the dimensions of which decrease as they approach the outer surface, allowing moisture to drain on contact, giving the skin pad grip.
THE NEXT
BIG THING
They discovered that a combination of finely ground silicates and quartz with anti-slip qualities, suspended in the pattern inks sprayed on tiles prior to kilning, produce a similarly effective nano-surface. These tiles have :
- a high slip rating, measured by the pendulum test
- excellent stain and chemical resistance
Our new SmoothGrip finish uses the latest nano-surface technology to produce a smooth surface, with a high degree of slip resistance. This new surface provides a durable, tactile, low maintenance finish with aesthetic appeal, without sacrificing safety.
Ref: ANTI-SLIP CERAMIC TILES OBTAINED BY INKJET PRINTING. THE PROBLEM OF CHEMICAL RESISTANCE
Javier Cabedo (1), Susana Carmena (1), Manolo Mateu (1), Carlos Gil (2), Adriana Belda (3), Vicente Sanz (3)
(1) Endeka Ceramics, S.A.U., Vall d ́Alba, Castellón, España, (2) Keros Cerámica, S.A., Nules, España
(3) Instituto de Tecnología Cerámica-AICE, Universitat Jaume I, Castellón, España
OUR
SOLUTION
We are distributing three ranges in matt finish with this modern tile technology, two that are new and one an old favourite.
These tiles inspire the designer in us all, enabling one tile to be used internally in bathrooms, kitchens and lounge rooms and externally on patio’s and around swimming pools.
Tiles with SmoothGrip have an amazing aesthetic and smooth tactile feel, with excellent anti-slip qualities. Without the roughness associated with traditional external tiles, they are easy to clean.
FUZE
FUZE combines the beautiful concrete and stone look with the practicality of porcelain tile.
Designed to complement any contemporary space, Fuze is the perfect choice for the industrial and new age style.
KROSS
The KROSS series creates a rustic yet sophisticated look in any space the way classic cross cut travertine does.
With its multiple faces and large format, the Kross series adds a luxurious aesthetic to your living space with a natural soft texture and neutral colour palette.
SHADOW
Our full body SHADOW porcelain tile channels a modern natural sandstone look at a fraction of the cost.
Sophisticated spaces deserve the high-end finishes that this range provides. Available in multiple on-trend colours, sizes and finishes, select this tile for both internal and external surfaces within your home or in a light commercial setting.
Feeling is believing!
Touch our SmoothGrip products to test them for yourself!
BACKED BY
OUR EXPERTISE
30+ YEARS
EXPERIENCE
Stoneworld has been supplying to the Australian building industry for over 30 years.
NATIONWIDE
DISTRIBUTION
We have offices and warehouses in four states and deliver Australia wide.
10 YEAR
WARRANTY
Our product comes with a 10 year warranty for that extra peace of mind.
EXTENSIVE
RANGE
We have first access to a broad range of fashionable high quality tiles and building surface products from around the globe.
ADVANCE
SALES TOOLS
Stoneworld is proud to provide support to our customers every step of the way, online and in your showroom.
PROFESSIONAL
SALES TEAM
Stoneworld’s experienced sales team provides expertise, advice and solutions for our customer needs.