Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
be waxed, but too frequent waxing of linoleum can increase its static charge.
Cleaning is simple and this is done with a damp cloth or with a weak solution of
green soap.
Linoleum does not tolerate continuous exposure to water and is therefore not
suitable for bathrooms etc.
The raw material situation for the production of the main constituents of
linoleum is good; they are mainly renewable resources. The primary energy con-
sumption is much lower than for the alternatives, plastic and synthetic rubber.
From the finished product there is a possibility that linseed oil can release oxi-
dation products, such as aldehydes. There has also been evidence of emissions
from added solvents, glue and the plastic-based surface-coating. The differences
in these emissions are very large between the different manufacturers. With care-
ful production techniques it should be possible to reduce the problems to a min-
imum.
Linoleum cannot be recycled, but can probably be energy-recycled or com-
posted. Waste can lead to an increased amount of nutrients in groundwater and
it should therefore be dumped at a special tip. The same applies if poisonous
colour pigments have been used.
Natural rubber (latex)
The source of natural rubber products is the rubber tree. Rubber coverings con-
tains 30 per cent by weight of sulphur powder, colour pigments and fillers of
chalk and kaolin. It also contains vulcanizing agents, stabilizers, fire retardants
(usually zinc oxide) and lubricants in the form of stearin, to about 2.5 per cent by
weight.
Natural rubber is a renewable resource in southern climates. The primary
energy consumption for these floor coverings is about half of the equivalent
synthetic rubber products. Inside a building rubber flooring causes no prob-
lems. The material can be recycled if it can be removed and cleaned from the
floor base.
Plastic and synthetic rubber
This flooring is delivered in three main types: polyvinyl chloride (PVC), poly-
olephine and synthetic rubber flooring.
Vinyl covering
This is produced with PVC mixed with fillers such as sand, chalk, kaolin, wood
flour, zinc oxide, lime or powdered stone. Vinyl tiles with asbestos mixed in are
still being produced in Eastern Europe. Colour pigment, softeners and stabilizers,
