The primary long-term failure point of a floor tile is wear resistance. Mandatory tests confirm that Skip Tile exceed the European Standard requirement for porcelain, which allows a maximum of 175 mm³ of material loss; our tiles show only 162 mm³ of abrasion.
Based on this performance, we classify the lifespan of Skip Tile as 50 years, aligning with the durability of porcelain tiles and and vitrified porcelain tiles, which typically last between 50 and 60 years.
In reality, these tiles could last for centuries. However, longevity depends on usage and conditions—tiles in a residential kitchen will experience significantly different wear than those in a busy train station concourse.
Skip Tile has a Pendulum Test Value (PTV) of 36+.
For all technical documentation, please check our Downloads Centre >
CornWall is made from more than 99% biomass, and upon request (depending on colour), it is available as 100% biobased.
CornWall is listed as ILFI™ Declare Red List Free. The product is non-toxic and has no added resins or VOC’s.
BioBasedTiles are listed as ILFI™ Declare Red List Free and have a Health Product Declaration (HPD).
Skip Tile is made from stable ceramic and glass materials. This material does not contain any Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Paper Waste Panels are certified A+ air quality under the Grenelle Law, showing that the product has minimum emissions of pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Pretty Plastic Panels are made from 100% recycled PVC, with Aluminium Trihydrate (ATH) added for fire retardancy and compounded colour stabilisation. The advanced injection moulding process ensures material stability, minimising VOC emissions during manufacturing and use.
With a B-s3, d0 fire classification under EN 13501-1:2018, Pretty Plastic Panels comply with European and UK regulations for VOC emissions, offering a sustainable and low-emission solution for indoor and outdoor applications.
WasteBasedBricks and WasteBasedSlips are made from natural and recycled raw materials without the use of synthetic additives or binders that could release VOCs over time.
During the high-temperature kiln-firing process, any organic compounds naturally present in the materials are effectively neutralized. This process renders the bricks inert and non-combustible, minimizing any risk of VOC emissions.
WasteBasedSlips have been tested for anti-slip according to English and European Standards using a pendulum test (CEN/TS 16165, annex C / BS 7679:2) and a ramp method, with footwear (CEN/TS 16165, annex B).
The pendulumtest results in an average friction coefficient of PTV 67, classifying the WasteBasedSlip as a product with low slip potential. The ramp method results in an average maximal gradient of 31.1 degrees classifying the WasteBasedSlip as R12 according to the assessment table slip resistance characteristics in DIN 51130.
Paper Waste Panels have a fire class of C-s1-d0.
WasteBasedBricks- and Slips fall under Fire Class A1 in accordance with EN 13501-1, the highest classification for fire performance in construction materials. This means the bricks are non-combustible and do not contribute to fire at any stage.
Skip Tile fall under Fire Class A1 in accordance with EN 13501-1, the highest classification for fire performance in construction materials. This means the tiles are non-combustible and do not contribute to fire at any stage.
Yes, the Skip Tile has a weighted average specific product EPD. By avoiding spray drying, Alusid’s Mas reduces the amount of energy used by approximately 45%. This translates to a 51%* reduction of the amount of CO₂ released and 44% less water used in comparison with the average Spanish produced tile.
*CO₂ and water saving is based on published verified EPD data for GWP-total/WDP (A1-A3 cradle to gate) per m² and is a comparison of weighted average Mas tile range with the average tile from data provided by Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers Association members (ASCER) published in 2024.
You can download the EPD here >
The Skip Tile MAS range comes in two sizes, and four colours with a single matt finely and subtly textured surface.
See the full range of Skip Tile here >
Yes, Skip Tiles are versatile and can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications, all of the tiles in the MAS range are vitrified and have a typical water absorption of 0.6% meaning they are resistant to freeze thaw action.
Alusid’s process is designed to use significantly less energy than traditional manufacturing, further reducing its environmental impact. Alusid subcontract factories in Spain use solar power where possible, but they do use a lot of energy to fire Alusid products.
Yes, Skip Tiles are designed to be stain-resistant and resistant to low concentration acids and general household cleaners.
> Find the full technical documentation in our Download Centre
Skip Tiles are easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and a soft cloth or mop is sufficient.
> Find the full product care guide in our Download Centre
Yes, Skip tiles can be cut to size, they are vitrified tiles and are extremely durable and hard. We therefore recommend that Skip tiles are cut using standard diamond cutting tools typically used for porcelain with precautions taken to control dust.
> Find the full product installation guide in our Download Centre
Skip Tiles do not require any sealing.
Skip Tiles have a typical wet Pendulum Test Value (PTV) of 54. This was established by third party independent testing.
Thanks to Alusid’s innovative manufacturing process, Skip Tiles are highly durable and resistant to wear. They are suitable for high-traffic areas and harsh conditions.
Alusid makes all solid surface products in the UK from Alusid Preston production facility. The majority of Alusid sustainable tile products are made in Spain, including the Mas Tile.
Skip Tiles are manufactured using upcycled materials, reducing waste and energy consumption. Alusid’s production process aligns with sustainable practices, making the MAS range an eco-friendly choice.
For more details, please download the Skip Tile EPD >
Skip Tiles should be installed using standard tile adhesive and grout. For best results, it’s recommended to hire a professional installer familiar with the product.
Skip Tiles are made using recycled materials, including clay and ceramic waste, making them a sustainable choice for residential and commercial spaces. The range is between 95% and 98.5% recycled depending on the colour.
Colours can be customized by providing a RAL or NCS code. The custom colouring will be free of charge for orders bigger than 250 m² — if less, there will be a small additional charge.
Please talk to our experts for more information.
Currently, the Paper Waste Panels collection comprises three patterns debossed on the panel surface, offering various shadow effects. The unique pressing technology enables pattern customization for large orders at additional cost.
We encourage the reuse of Paper Waste Panels that have been disassembled in connection with renovation or demolition. Refurbishment or repairs mightbe necessary, and we can provide the required coating products.
Once the takeback program is in place, Paper Waste Panels can be 100% recycled in the same loop, not downcycled, to never become waste again. Please get in touch with our experts to get more information about recycling options prior to dismantling.
Keep liquids away from the panels. In the event of a spill or minor stain on the panels, use a moist or dry cloth to wipe away the filth as soon as possible. Allow the product to dry in the open air until no moisture is apparent. Do not use wet mops, wet scrubbers, or steam cleaners.
We do not recommend using any liquids or very wet utensils to clean the products, nor do we recommend using solvents on the products. No wax, polish, oil soap, abrasive cleaners, steel wool, scouring powder, or significant amounts of water should be used. Do not scratch or rub the surface to ensure long-lasting durability.
Please visit our download centre for more technical information
Please visit our download centre to download the installation guidelines of our Paper Waste Panels.
No, you should not install Paper Waste Panels in high-moisture areas or that often require cleaning. You should avoid areas exposed to liquids.
Paper Waste Panels are designed for interior wall applications. However, there are several mehods for ceiling installation such as directly screwed to the ceiling, screwed to wooden battens and suspended ceiling grid system. This last option might need reinforcement.
Please visit our download centre for more technical information. This is an ongoing development and we will update our documents as soon as we have tested this.
Paper Waste Panels are designed for interior wall applications. The unique processing method used to shape the panels – combined with the original properties from our raw materials – brings durable and strong properties to the product. However, it should still be handled with care and not be placed in humid or dirty environments or in areas were it will be exposed to high impact and wear.
It is possible to cut Paper Waste Panels with a circular saw, tiger saw, or similar. Use discs with 96+ teeth and 5000 rpm for best results. The colours do not run through the material, so if you cut the panels, the edges will be exposed, unprotected from humidity, and showing the natural colour of the raw material.
We recommend planning carefully where the cut edges will be placed within the wall design. Both exposed edges and minor damages to the product during installation can be repainted with touch-up paint that we can provide.
Paper Waste Panels are not designed to perform as an acoustic product, although they absorb more sound energy than other common wall materials. The weighted sound absorption coefficient for Paper Waste Panels is 0.15 αw, meaning it absorbs 15% of incident sound energy. This ratio is similar to chipboards or soft woods.
For the most up-to-date price range of our products, please have a look at: front-materials.com/pricing
Pretty Plastic is committed to a sustainable future by adhering to the principles of a circular economy, such as eliminating waste and maintaining materials without downcycling. Additionally, they focus on achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9, 12, and 13.
By using recycled PVC, the need for virgin materials is reduced. To our knowledge, Pretty Plastic is the only company using this challenging “raw material” to create circular building products, particularly facade and roof panels. The recycled PVC granules used are sourced from construction waste (e.g., gutters, window frames, pipes), which would otherwise end up in landfill or be used as a base layer in road construction.
Visit our download centre for all technical documents >
Some microplastics may be released during cutting, so it is highly recommended to wear a facemask and collect dust. Once installed, there is minimal microplastic emission, as there is no abrasion between the products, and the panels are neatly assembled in one place.
Pretty Plastic works together with plastic recycling companies in The Netherlands and Belgium. They use PVC waste from demolished buildings, mainly window frames. The PVC waste is collected on building sites and processed into a granule that functions as the raw material for the Pretty Plastic Panels.
Due to the specific requirements of window frames, it’s not possible to make a product 100% consisting of rPVC window frames. Hence Pretty Plastic purchases rPVC, originating from demolished buildings.
During the production of Pretty Plastic Panels, little to no waste is generated. All panels that do not meet our standards, the protrusions and most of the rinsing material can be reused again as raw material for the production of a new panel.
The shredder, which prepares waste materials for a new production process, is also located at our production facility. The small amount of actual waste (thermally overheated) is treated as industrial waste and used to generate energy and heat during incineration.
Pretty Plastic Panels come with a 10-year warranty, and their lifespan ranges up to 75 years. All Pretty Plastic Panels are detachable and can be reused. Please note that the 10-year warranty is on the product, not the installation.
The founders of Pretty Plastic are deeply committed to circular design. Every product we create is focused on a direct diminishing of PVC waste by transforming it into beautiful new building materials, with an impressive circular waste index of 99.3%.
Yes, Pretty Plastic Panels have undergone an LCA, and the ‘First One’ panel has achieved EPD certification.
The panel has been included in the Dutch Nationale Milieudatabase (NMD, National Environmental Database) in Category 1, being the first building material in this group made of 100% recycled PVC.
Carbon emissions were calculated for the ‘First One’ Pretty Plastic Panel through an LCA. From the analysis, it results that the total global warming potential (GWP) per square meter is 40 kg CO₂ equivalent.
Note that this is a trade-off derived from specific design choices as with these panels, the aim is to recycle as much PVC as possible into new building materials. A much lower GWP is expected for the ‘Second High’ and ‘Basic Third’ panel as the number of panels per square meter is significantly reduced (from 22 to 9 and 6).
The Pretty Plastic Panels are packaged on wooden pallets, wrapped in recycled plastic film and strips. The tiles are packaged per m² and labelled with colour codes. Currently alternative packaging materials and methods are discussed to ensure the most sustainable option without comprising on the quality of panels during transport.
Water is used for cooling the panels after the material has been injected into the mould. This water does not come in contact with the plastic and thus no substances can leak into the water.
The water that is used to cool the product is used for all systems in the factory’s premises (closed system), so that limited to no water is wasted.
The energy needed to produce 1 m² of Pretty Plastic’s ‘First One’ Panel is about 11 kWh. This is about 0.50 kWh per panel. The Pretty Plastic Panels are produced using green electricity produced from resources such as solar, wind, geothermal and biomass.
Yes, Pretty Plastic Panels have CE approval.
The U-value is not relevant for this non-insulating product.
The product itself is airtight, but the ventilated facade system ensures breathability for insulation materials.
The panels are good insulators but are typically installed on open (ventilated) facades, so the thermal properties are not relevant.
Yes, the panels can be recycled up to eight times, and Pretty Plastic offers a return policy for unused panels. Apart from this, all panels are detachable and can easily be reused for new projects.
Yes, Pretty Plastic Panels have an EPD for the ‘First One’ panel, which can be downloaded from our website.
Please note that the aim of the ‘First One’ panel is to recycle as much PVC as possible into new building material. This results in a higher product weight per functional unit.
This design choice is reflected in the LCA and EPD results.
The panel has also been included in the Dutch ‘Nationale Milieudatabase’ (NMD, National Environmental Database) in Category 1, making it the first building material in this group to be made from 100% recycled PVC.
No, Pretty Plastic Panels are sold per m², not per individual panel. The minimal order quantity is 50 m².
Pretty Plastic Panels are fabricated at JPI Polymers BV in the Netherlands. As both FRONT® as Pretty Plastic are also located in the Netherlands, it makes it really easy to control the quality of the product before we send it out.
Pretty Plastic Panels can be ordered in four different colours: grey, green, terracotta, and ochre. Each colour comes in three different shades: light, medium and dark. Please note, due to the nature of rPVC, each tile is different and slight colour differences might occur.
Pretty Plastic Panels plans to implement a system to retrieve and recycle used panels back into the system.
Pretty Plastic Panels will naturally patinate over time under UV exposure (similar to all other PVC) without losing technical performance. UV has the same natural effect on the panels as on wooden cladding.
The recycled PVC used in the production of the panels comes from building material which already contains stabilizers. Neither the colour nor the technical performance of Pretty Plastic Panels is affected by exposure to sunlight. Lighter colours might have a bit more diminished glare after about 10 years, as is the case with plastic window frames.
Certified data is currently limited to discolouration, but Pretty Plastic Panels are being researched for UV degradation, and more information will be available in the future.
Pretty Plastic Panels are made from 100% recycled PVC, primarily sourced from Post-Consumer (PCR) waste such as window frames, gutters, and downspouts. This PVC is washed, shredded, and made into granules before being delivered to our production facility in the Netherlands.
Panels are also made from post-industrial waste generated at our own production site. All pre-consumer waste during production is shredded and reused to manufacture new panels.
Regular PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a common, strong but lightweight plastic used in many building materials. It is softened and made more flexible by the addition of plasticisers. If no plasticisers are added, it is known as uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride), rigid PVC, or vinyl siding in the United States. The recyclate used by Pretty Plastic is regular PVC, supplied by several plastic recycling companies in both the Netherlands and Belgium.
Pretty Plastic Panels are very easy to install. Any builder can install Pretty Plastic Panels, as application is similar to installing standard roof tiles. For large-scale projects, specialized facade cladding companies are recommended. Have a look in the dedicated installation manual for instructions.
Visit our download centre >
The panels are easy to cut on-site by one person. Any saw can be used for cutting. It is, however, important to collect sawdust to prevent the release of microplastics.
The cutting edge is tight and neat, often covered by corner profile or profiles around window frames to prevent water infiltration. In the installation manual you can find a picture of the cutting edge.
For applications on the first level, it is highly recommended to protect the cut edges with a(n) (aluminium) profile to prevent impact damage. Otherwise, no additional protection is needed.
Cutting loss depends on the design layout, but a calculation of 10% cutting loss is recommended for projects > 100m². For smaller projects, a cutting loss of calculation of 5% is recommended.
Pretty Plastic Panels are maintenance-free and can be cleaned with water or any cleaning agent suitable for hard PVC products.
Yes, the Pretty Plastic Panel ‘First One’ and ‘Basic Third’ interlock by overlapping each other from the bottom to the top. The ‘Second High’ panel has a fixed framework with installation joints.
The panels overlap and are not completely flat when attached to prevent moisture from getting behind the facade. Please consult the installation manual to see all details.
Dedicated manuals are available for each type of Pretty Plastic Panel to ensure secure installation. The process is straightforward, and certified construction reports are provided for each panel. Be sure to follow the provided installation instructions and use the specified screws as indicated. Both the recommended screws and underlying slat structures are readily available.
Pretty Plastic Panels are not intended to be painted to maintain their sustainability. Painting would reduce the ability to recycle them fully. Unpainted, Pretty Plastic Panels can be recycled up to 8 times.
Yes, the Pretty Plastic Panels ‘First One’ and ‘Basic Third’ are suitable for both facade as roof cladding.
Yes, Pretty Plastic Panels are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
No, Pretty Plastic Panels do not include corner caps, and there are no dedicated corner panels. Recommended corner solutions can be found in the installation manuals, available for download. If needed, Pretty Plastic experts are available to design custom corner solutions.
Installation typically adds 50-60% to the m² price in The Netherlands, though it can vary locally. Please check your local contractor for pricing in your own country.
Pretty Plastic Panels are sold at a standard price of €120 per m² for traders, contractors, and project developers. We rarely supply to private individuals, which is why we do not have separate pricing.
Pretty Plastic’s HS code is 39189000. More details on duty for the US can be found here.
Pretty Plastic Panels have a Class B-S3-d0 fire rating and certified engineering reports, suitable for buildings up to 45 metres. This is the highest possible rating for recycled materials without any additional substrates.
For taller buildings, an A2 fire class certification can be achieved based on the entire facade composition, including interior walls and insulation layers.
PVC softens at high temperatures, around 70-90 degrees Celsius, and it has the property of returning to form afterward.
Pretty Plastic Panels can be used on buildings up to 45 metres. For heights above 45 metres, dedicated construction and fire safety reports are required.
The necessary A2 fire certification for high-rises can be achieved based on the entire facade composition, including interior walls and insulation layers.
Yes, the entire product, including the pigments, is Red List Free.
You can download the sustainability statement of CornWall via the download centre. An official EPD will be published as soon as the production is scaled up.
CornWall is available for delivery in Europe and the United States.
CornWall can be disassembled and reused. If the product is damaged or not reused, it can be returned. The product will go through the shredder, and the raw materials will be 100% reused.
The technical documentation of CornWall can be downloaded from the download centre.
No, the material is not specifically developed for this application.
CornWall has a slight natural variation, similar to the colour differences expected when ordering wood veneer or marble.
The minimum order size for CornWall is 50 m2 in Europe and 500 m2 in the United States.
We currently recommend using CornWall only in dry spaces. Tests are being conducted to determine the material’s suitability for semi-wet spaces such as sink backsplashes, kitchens, and bars. Once we have more information, we will update our website.
No, this isn’t currently adviced.
No, currently, CornWall is only applicable as vertical wall finishing for interiors.
CornWall always has one side coated. Only this side can be used as the visible side.
Yes, CornWall lends itself to custom design, including colour, texture, and size. The maximum size we can currently produce is 60 cm x 60 cm. Custom projects start from 1000 m2.
This depends on the order. Contact us for a current estimate.
CornWall is produced by Circular Matters in Belgium. They collaborate with a sheltered workshop for the manufacturing of the product.
CornWall is packaged in boxes on Euro pallets.
The material price of CornWall is comparable to the price of a high-quality ceramic tile. However, the processing and end-of-life costs are much lower. Request a quote for the exact price.
CornWall can be processed with various universal systems, such as Torx screws or a fast-mount system. Check the installation guidelines in the download centre.
CornWall is thin and lightweight. The tiles are typically 4 mm thick with a size of 60 cm x 60 cm. This offers various advantages, including a significant reduction in emissions during transport. Approximately 150 m2 of CornWall fits on a pallet.
Download the technical specification in the download centre for the exact weight.
Based on in-house tests, CornWall has an estimated fire class of B-s1-d0. Official tests leading to certification are currently being conducted and are expected to be completed in Q2 2025.
Corn is the most cultivated crop on Earth. Much of the corn is used as a basis for animal feed, with a smaller portion designated for human consumption. In this latter case, the corn is separated from the cob. The cob contains no nutrients and is not edible. Typically, this byproduct goes to biomass combustion facilities. Through combustion, the stored CO₂ is released. In other cases, the material remains in the field. Here, the cob is decomposed by nature, releasing CO₂ as well.
By using this material as a raw material, the CO₂ is stored in CornWall for an extended period. This makes this stream a perfect alternative to scarce raw materials.
There is a difference between organic and biodegradable. The coating of CornWall is organic. The pigments are not organic but are biodegradable. Cornwall is biodegradable product. This means that in case the Cornwall cannot be reused or recycled (which should always be the aim), it can be naturally broken down, leaving no trace.
Don’t throw away the CornWall elements yourself (because your local composting installation won’t know which product this is), but get in touch with us to we can arrange the most sustainable end-of-live scenario.
CornWall obtains its colour by adding biodegradable pigments. Depending on the colour, a maximum of 0.5% of pigments is added. The pigment is introduced into the mixture before CornWall is pressed. This means that the colour is consistent throughout.
CornWall is primarily composed of the cores of corn cobs left behind after the corn kernels have been removed. Additionally, CornWall includes biomass from, among other sources, bio-ethanol production.
To add colour, a small amount of biodegradable pigments is introduced, and to enhance water repellency, a thin layer of biobased coating is applied.
A material can be made primarily from organic components (“biobased”), but that doesn’t automatically mean the product is also biodegradable. Conversely, a material can be synthetic but still biodegradable.
Read more about this topic >
Biobased materials have a double advantage: they sequester atmospheric CO2 (originally released through the burning of fossil sources) for decades and reduce the amount of fossil carbon pumped up to produce conventional materials.
In general, the term “biobased” indicates that a product contains bio-based components. It is always important to enquire with a supplier about the precise amount of bio-based components, as sometimes blending just 5% biomass is sufficient to label a product as “biobased”.
The product has an organic content of less than 1% and is therefore classified as class A1 in accordance with EN 13501-1 and Delegated regulation 2016/364.
BioBasedTiles fall under Fire Class A1 in accordance with EN 13501-1, the highest classification for fire performance in construction materials. This means the tiles are non-combustible and do not contribute to fire at any stage.
BioBasedTiles have been added to the SundaHus Material Data system with an A-rating. SundaHus Material Data is the market leader for environmentally conscious material choices in the construction and property markets in Sweden.
To read more about the specific assessment criteria, please download this document by SundaHus Material Data.
BioBasedTiles are also listed in the Nordic Swan Ecolabel’s Building Materials Database.
The Building Materials Database, shared with all Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden), is used by building producers to find products that are accepted by Nordic Ecolabelling. Read more.
Due to the nature of the material and the production process, ceramic brick is subject to dimensional tolerances and a certain range.
In the case of WasteBasedBricks, this is specified as T1/Rm (15-10-10) (Tolerance / Range). In the case of T1/Rm, the deviation on the average size can be no more or less than 6*4*3mm (l*w*h) and the difference between the smallest and the largest bricks can be no more than 15*10*10 (l*w*h).
Dimensional tolerance (T1, T2 or Tm)
In practice, the designer often bases the dimensions on the average theoretical dimensions of a standard masonry brick format. However, the dimensions used by an individual manufacturer can greatly differ from this. Each manufacturer can give its interpretation of the average size of a standard format and the associated dimensional tolerances (T). So standard dimensions do not exist in masonry bricks. This deviation is defined in the classes T1, T2 or Tm.
The starting points are the length, width and height as stated on the CE specification of the brick. The average size of the bricks must fall within the specified tolerances.
Measure spread (R1, R2 or Rm)
After determining the average sizes, the size spread can be calculated. The size difference between the smallest and largest brick in a batch (ten bricks are randomly drawn from a batch) must not exceed the specified size range.
WasteBasedBricks are all delivered within the T1/Rm standard. The dimensions of bricks and brick slips are the result of the average dimensions of the chosen brick and the dimensions of the joint. In the case of a tile or herringbone bond or a joint smaller than 10 mm, you want to consider the effects of the tolerances on the design.
The BioBasedTiles have an R12 rating with a Pendulum Test Value and Slip Resistance Value rating beyond 50.
These products are suitable for wet commercial areas such as swimming pools, showers and kitchens. With BioBasedTiles, there is a low risk of slipping.
We are not responsible for sealant selection or sealant application instructions. Please test the desired sealer before full application to ensure proper results. Follow all manufacturer instructions for application and re-application.
Download a list of approved sealants, including Biomason testing results and environmental information from our website.
Please note that the recommendations in this document are based on Biomason’s internal testing of the listed categories, and are ranked subjectively based on our findings. This is not meant to be a fully comprehensive list of all possible sealants; it is a list of sealants that we have tested.
Biomason makes no claim over which sealant is “best” for your desired application.
You can download our sustainability document from our Download Centre.
The datasheet / NEN specification we publish in our download centre is an indication of the technical specs of a certain brick type and is based on previously produced products. The document gives you an indication on the water absorption percentage and compressive strength of previous batches of the same brick type.
For your specific project, the technical specifications of the actual production will be separately tested and confirmed. We advice not to use this datasheet / NEN specification for technical decisions such as a mortar advice.
The WasteBasedBrick is a building material that includes waste from construction, demolition and the industry. It is an intrinsic property of the WasteBasedBrick that, due to the nature of the used materials and means of production, the products contain a certain colour variation.
Samples of products you’ve received before placing the order are type samples and give an indication of the colour and texture. The actual aesthetical properties of the WasteBasedBricks will be confirmed with a production sample after placing the order.
The short answer is no. Not yet.
The factory that will produce the BioBasedTile on a large scale is located in Denmark. The Biomason EPD team is working closely together with the engineers in Denmark to calculate the environmental profile of the actual product made over here.
To prevent the circulation of multiple EPDs of the BioBasedTiles, we will be waiting for the new publication which represents the commercial product we are selling.
The primary component of traditional concrete is Portland cement. Portland cement is manufactured from crushed limestone (calcium carbonate). There are two main stages in the manufacturing of portland cement.
The first stage, calcination, requires heating limestone to temperatures greater than 800 degrees Celsius (~1,500 F), resulting in calcium oxide and carbon dioxide gas.
The second stage, clinker formation, combines calcium oxide with silicates at furnace temperatures greater than 1,300 degrees Celsius (~2,400 F).
Manufacturing 1 KG of Portland cement releases approximately 1 KG of carbon dioxide into the environment. Half of this comes from the calcination of the limestone, and the other half from the combustion of fossil fuels necessary to achieve the required kiln temperatures. Additional atmospheric byproducts of portland cement production include dioxin, NOx, SO₂, and particulates.
The final material consists of approximately 85% natural aggregate, and 15% biologically grown limestone.
Instead of Portland cement, we use biocement to bind loose sand and rock. Portland cement is a calcium-silicate hydrate material that originally comes from liberating carbon from limestone through intensive heating, emitting carbon dioxide as a byproduct.
Biocement is a reversal of this process, where carbon and calcium are combined to produce a biologically formed limestone material. This means that high heat and fossil fuels are not required in the process, and BioBasedTiles use carbon as a building block, just like nature!
Naturally occurring bacteria are used to produce BioBasedTiles, a non-modified bacteria described as a wild-type strain. The non-pathogenic strain was isolated from a species commonly found in global natural environments.
These bacteria typically create cemented materials over hundreds or thousands of years, but the binding process enables them to do the same work in days.
Bacteria are everywhere in the world around us. Generally speaking, they need two things to survive: nutrients and moisture. BioBasedTiles do retain trace bacteria from the growth process. However, these exist in a dormant state and require conditions beyond those commonly found in the built environment to become active.
The size of the BioBasedTiles does not change from the time it is formed in production. During production, they increase in density. The “growing” happens as biologically produced calcium carbonate forms bridges between the aggregate grains, strengthening the unit from within. BioBasedTiles do not warp during production.
It takes less than 72 hours for our BioBasedTiles to reach full cure strength, and this is continuously improving through Biomason’s rapid research and development. As a note—traditional concrete can take up to 28 days to cure!
Currently, we offer BioBasedTiles in different colours, sizes and finishes that can be applied as flooring, wall cladding and facades. Visit our products page to find out more.
No. Throughout the years, our partner Biomason developed their own binder that we use for the BioBasedTiles. The process relies on bacteria for the growth of cement rather than burning fuels for calcination resulting in a lighter, stronger, and thinner material.
No, we don’t take on any design projects right now. We do clad counters with our materials if it is part of a larger interior project.
If you design an object built from bricks and it exceeds our minimum order quantity of 200 m² for interior projects within Europe (including the United Kingdom) or 1000 m² in the United States or Middle-East, we can talk through your design idea. Please, contact our sales team.
Yes, our products can be combined with insulation panels made for ceramic brick slips. Contact our sales team for references.
We deliver our products to Europe (including the United Kingdom) and North America.
Deliveries to Asia, South America, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand don’t fit our current sustainable approach. We want to work with regional waste streams on all continents in the future, so stay tuned for the latest updates!
In principle, we do not use any pigments. However, we aim to compose the WasteBasedBrick recipes in such a way that they result in an attractive product. Pigments could be added to manipulate certain colours. The firing curve of the products also has a significant effect on the colour. We primarily aim to use waste-base pigments.
An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is an independently verified and registered document that communicates transparent and comparable information about the life-cycle environmental impact of products in a credible way.
We now have a preliminary EPD of our products available on request. You can download the EPD in our download centre.
We deliver our products under the general terms and conditions of the Royal Association of Dutch Brick Manufacturers (‘Vereniging Koninklijke Nederlandse Bouwkeramiek‘ – KNB). This involves a 10-year warranty on frost resistance. This is in line with most producers of ceramic materials in the Netherlands.
All our products go through the standard market tests for bricks and are safe to use according to European standards. Learn how our WasteBasedBricks are made.
Our products have the properties to last more than 100 years. Unfortunately, most buildings these days are being demolished much sooner than that.
The good news is that WasteBasedBricks can be recycled and used as ingredients for new WasteBasedBricks. For example, check our ‘2Good2Waste‘ bricks of 100% waste.
This depends on the calculation method you use. In preliminary research from an external agency, a 25% reduction in environmental cost indicators was reported with fully scaled-up production. In general, the WasteBasedBrick, in line with other bricks, is sustainable because of its longevity (70+ years).
With the WasteBasedBrick, we focus primarily on waste as a resource instead of digging up natural and limited resources. To decrease the CO2 footprint of the brick even further, we are testing more efficient firing curves.
All our waste streams are tested on quality and consistency and comply with government regulations. Learn how our WasteBasedBricks are made.
We are already able to make bricks from 100% waste. Yet, the machines we currently use at our factory aren’t able to process them. This will remain our focus for the coming years. Our mission stands: creating building materials from 100% upcycled waste with a positive carbon impact on the planet.
We use demolition waste, industrial waste and by-products from several production and recycling processes. Learn how our WasteBasedBricks are made.
It depends on the production location and products. Our waste mostly comes from the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and England. Learn how our WasteBasedBricks are made.
We work with carefully selected partners and don’t have the ambition to expand the number of partners right now.
We are running a few pilot projects in the Netherlands to test the complete process of returning waste from a donor building to the project for the first time. Visit our project page to find out more.
Yes, we certainly do. Please request our Digital Sample Pack.
Yes, many! Feel free to download our press kit for high-resolution images. Or reach out to our sales team. They are happy to help you create the best presentation of our products possible.
On our events page, we post regular (online) workshops and webinars that are free to attend. For larger organisations, we also offer tailor-made presentations on location. Reach out to our sales team to find out more.
Due to limited resources, our team is not available for student interviews. Please check our website for detailed information about our mission, products, projects and production process. Our press kit features high-resolution images and videos.
We are always dedicated to finding talented, motivated people to join our team. For all current internship possibilities, please look at our careers page and sign up for our newsletter to stay updated with any available positions.
Due to limited resources and to prevent waste, we only send samples for planned projects. We would, however, love to give you access to our digital sample tool. With this free visualiser, you can create high-quality textures for construction drawings and 3D models.
In our Press Kit, you can find high-resolution images and videos and for detailed information on our products, please see our How it’s Made and Downloads page.
At FRONT®, we aim to advance the development, use and reuse of planet-friendly aesthetic building materials. If your technology or material helps us accelerate our mission, we’re interested in talking further.
We collaborate in technical development, aesthetic development, commercialisation and investments. Get in touch.
We receive many requests for custom product collaborations with FRONT®. We’ve made it a rule that we only set up new partnerships if there’s a commercial project involved where this new product will be implemented. Please find out more about our custom-made service.
No. All sales are handled by our skilled account managers from Amsterdam. We organise annual roadshows to cities like London, New York, and Copenhagen. Subscribe to our newsletter to find out when we will be around.
This depends on your assortment, network and location. Reach out to our sales department with a short profile of your company and we will get back to you.
Our office is not a showroom, and we share our office with other creative companies. Visiting our office is only possible by making an appointment with our sales team.
Not at the moment. Currently, we work mainly business-to-business and handle all sales ourselves. This way, we are certain you get all the complete information on time. We only produce our building materials on a project basis. Read more about how our products are made.
To keep things cost-effective and environmentally friendly, we have the following minimum order quantities to start production:
For all projects using our Custom Made Service, there is a minimum order quantity of 1000 m².
Our WasteBasedBricks are produced per project according to traditional production methods and with attention to quality and aesthetics. Because we look for the best solution for each project with the client, a set price isn’t possible. All prices depend on the product type, shape, size and quantity of your order.
This depends on what product you compare them with. In general, the WasteBasedBricks are priced in the higher range of bricks. But in terms of quality and aesthetics, they score high as well! Our experience is that when a client is looking for a facade with standard brick masonry, we are 2-4 times more expensive, based on standard Dutch brick sizes. However, in the segment of non-standard sizes, colours and textures (for example, long formats, moulded bricks, and thick formats), we can compete with suppliers of conventional products. We specialize in this segment.
Our products are successfully applied in projects focusing on sustainability and design with a matching budget. For the most up-to-date price range of our products, please have a look at: front-materials.com/pricing
This depends on the type of product you are looking for. Based on the information communicated in the sample request form, we’ll prepare a brick proposal for you, send samples, get into the specifics of your project and confirm the order, start production, and deliver on-site.
During and after the construction of your project, we’ll connect a few times to see how things are going. Get in touch with questions you might still have, or read more about the process of our custom-made service.
This depends on the product you choose and the quantity of the order. In general, delivery takes 26+ weeks. This can go up to a year for projects exceeding 1000 m². Contact our sales team to find out what the lead time on your project will be.
It’s always a challenge to capture the tactility and colour of products in photos, especially when made under different light circumstances. That can be one of the reasons the products look different online.
Another reason is that we constantly optimise our product recipes and production methods. This will lead to different colours and sometimes textures over time. That is why we recommend requesting a new sample on the products page.
This depends on where you are located and the type of factory you have. Please give us a call, and let’s explore what we can do together.
Not yet, unfortunately. We only work with larger, specific and well-separated quantities of waste for our sustainable building materials. This allows us to test the quality and consistency to comply with government regulations in The Netherlands. Please bring your well-separated construction waste to your local recycling facility to give it a second life.
There are no results for your question (yet), we’ll look into it and have the answer here soon!
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