TEL:0086-18803691565
2. Types of terrazzo tile raw materials
Aggregate, as an important component of terrazzo tiles, plays a key role in determining the performance and appearance of terrazzo tiles. There are rich and varied types of aggregates, and different types of aggregates have unique physical and chemical properties, which directly affect the key performance of terrazzo tiles such as strength, wear resistance, and aesthetics. From the perspective of physical properties, factors such as the hardness, density, particle shape and size of the aggregate will have a significant impact on the mechanical properties of terrazzo tiles. Aggregates with higher hardness can effectively improve the wear resistance of terrazzo tiles, making them less prone to wear during long-term use; while the uniformity of particle shape and size will affect the surface smoothness and aesthetics of the tiles. From the perspective of chemical properties, the chemical composition stability and corrosion resistance of aggregates are of great significance to the durability of terrazzo tiles under different environmental conditions. Aggregates with stable chemical properties and strong corrosion resistance can ensure that terrazzo tiles maintain good performance in harsh environments such as humidity, acid and alkali, and extend their service life.
Marble, as a common natural rock aggregate, is widely used in the production of terrazzo tiles. Its main component is calcium carbonate, which has the characteristics of fine texture and beautiful texture, which makes terrazzo tiles present a unique aesthetic in appearance and can meet the strict requirements of high-end architectural decoration for aesthetics. In the lobby floor paving of some luxury hotels, terrazzo tiles containing marble aggregates are used. Its fine texture and unique texture can create a luxurious and elegant atmosphere. From the perspective of physical properties, the hardness of marble is relatively low, and the Mohs hardness is generally between 3 and 4, which makes it affect the wear resistance of terrazzo tiles to a certain extent. In places with large traffic, such as shopping malls, railway stations, etc., long-term friction and trampling may cause wear on the surface of the tiles, affecting the appearance and performance.
Limestone is also one of the commonly used natural rock aggregates. Its main component is also calcium carbonate, which has good processing properties, is easy to cut and polish, and can reduce production difficulty and cost. The color of limestone is relatively single, usually gray or white, which to a certain extent limits the diversity of terrazzo tile colors. The hardness of limestone is relatively low, and its Mohs hardness is similar to that of marble, about 3-4, so it has limited effect in improving the wear resistance of terrazzo tiles. In practical applications, for some indoor places that do not require high wear resistance, such as floor decoration of ordinary houses, limestone aggregates can be used in appropriate amounts to reduce costs while meeting basic usage needs.
Quartz sand is an important mineral aggregate, the main component of which is silicon dioxide, which usually accounts for more than 90%. Quartz sand has the characteristics of high hardness and strong chemical stability, and its Mohs hardness can reach 7. In terrazzo tiles, quartz sand can significantly improve the hardness and wear resistance of the tiles. In the floor paving of industrial plants, due to the frequent movement of heavy machinery and frequent handling of goods, the ground needs to withstand tremendous pressure and friction. Terrazzo tiles containing quartz sand can effectively resist wear, maintain the flatness and integrity of the ground, and extend its service life.
The chemical composition of dolomite is CaMg (CO3) 2, which is mainly composed of calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate. It has a certain toughness, is not easy to break, is less sensitive to acidic substances, and has good weather resistance. In terrazzo tiles, dolomite can improve the impact resistance and weather resistance of the tile body. In some outdoor building decorations, such as squares and pedestrian streets, terrazzo tiles will be affected by the natural environment, including sun exposure, rain, acid and alkali erosion, etc. Terrazzo tiles containing dolomite aggregates can better adapt to these environments and maintain stable performance.
Ceramic particles are a new type of aggregate, usually made of alumina or boron nitride, with extremely high hardness, comparable to steel. It has excellent wear resistance and corrosion resistance, and can maintain integrity in high friction and high pressure environments. The use of ceramic particles in terrazzo tiles can greatly improve the surface hardness and wear resistance of the tiles. In some places with extremely high requirements for wear resistance, such as airport runways, highway toll stations, etc., terrazzo tiles containing ceramic particles can effectively resist long-term wear and impact, ensuring the performance and safety of the floor.
Glass beads are tiny hollow glass spheres with properties such as light weight, high strength, heat insulation, and sound insulation. In terrazzo tiles, glass beads can reduce the weight of the tiles, making them suitable for some construction projects with strict weight requirements, such as floor decoration of high-rise buildings. Glass beads can also give terrazzo tiles a unique luster and texture, increasing their aesthetics. By adjusting the amount of glass beads added and the particle size, different decorative effects can be achieved to meet diverse design needs.
Adhesive materials play a vital bonding role in the production of terrazzo tiles, and their performance directly determines the quality and performance of terrazzo tiles. Adhesive materials can firmly bond aggregates together to form a tight overall structure, thereby ensuring that terrazzo tiles have good strength and stability. When subjected to pressure and impact, adhesive materials can effectively transfer stress, so that the tile body is evenly stressed and avoid cracks or damage caused by excessive local stress. Adhesive materials also have an important impact on the durability, impermeability and other properties of terrazzo tiles.
As one of the most commonly used cement-based adhesive materials, ordinary Portland cement has a wide range of applications and high cost-effectiveness. It is mainly composed of minerals such as tricalcium silicate, dicalcium silicate, tricalcium aluminate and tetracalcium aluminoferrite. These minerals will undergo a series of complex chemical reactions during the hydration process to form a hard cement stone structure, thereby achieving a bonding effect on the aggregate. The strength grades of ordinary Portland cement are usually 42.5, 52.5, etc., and there are certain differences in performance between cements of different strength grades. Cement with higher strength grades has faster early and later strength growth, which can enable terrazzo tiles to reach higher strength in a shorter period of time, meeting the needs of rapid construction and use. In some construction projects with tight schedules, the use of high-strength ordinary Portland cement can speed up construction progress and shorten the project cycle.
The cement grade has a significant impact on the strength of terrazzo tiles. Generally speaking, the higher the cement grade, the higher the strength of the terrazzo tile. This is because high-grade cement contains a higher content of active mineral components, which can produce more hydration products during the hydration reaction. These hydration products are intertwined to form a denser structure, thereby enhancing the strength of the tile. When the cement grade increases from 42.5 to 52.5, the compressive strength and flexural strength of terrazzo tiles are significantly improved, and they can better withstand external forces.
The amount of cement also has an important impact on the performance of terrazzo tiles. Increasing the amount of cement appropriately can improve the strength and durability of the tile. Using too much cement will cause the tiles to shrink more, easily causing cracks, and affecting the quality and service life of the tiles. In actual production, it is necessary to reasonably control the amount of cement according to the specific design requirements and raw material characteristics to achieve the best balance between performance and cost.
Compared with ordinary Portland cement, white cement has a higher whiteness, which can usually reach more than 85%. This allows white cement to provide a white base color for the terrazzo tiles in the production, thereby better showing the color and texture of the aggregate, making the terrazzo tiles have a more beautiful appearance. In some places with high requirements for decoration, such as high-end hotels and museums, white cement is often used to produce terrazzo tiles to create an elegant and pure atmosphere.
The strength grade of white cement is generally 42.5, 52.5, etc. Its strength performance is similar to that of ordinary Portland cement, but there are differences in some aspects. The early strength growth of white cement is relatively slow, but its later strength growth is relatively stable. When using white cement to produce terrazzo tiles, it is necessary to pay attention to adjusting the production process and curing conditions to ensure that the tiles can achieve the expected strength and performance.
Epoxy resin is an excellent organic polymer adhesive material with excellent bonding properties. It can form a strong chemical bond with various aggregates, greatly enhancing the bonding force between aggregates. In terrazzo tiles, epoxy resin can effectively bond aggregates together to form a stable structure, thereby improving the strength and stability of the tile body. Epoxy resin also has good flexibility and can buffer the impact of external forces to a certain extent, reducing the risk of cracking of the tile body due to force.
Epoxy resin is also very resistant to chemical corrosion and can resist the erosion of a variety of chemical substances. In some chemical workshops, laboratories and other places, terrazzo tiles may be exposed to acid, alkali and other chemical reagents. Terrazzo tiles using epoxy resin as adhesive material can maintain good performance in these harsh chemical environments, are not easily corroded and damaged, and extend their service life.
Unsaturated polyester resin is also one of the commonly used organic polymer adhesive materials. It has the characteristics of fast curing speed, which can make terrazzo tiles reach a certain strength in a short time and improve production efficiency. In the large-scale production of terrazzo tiles, the fast curing characteristics of unsaturated polyester resin can shorten the production cycle and reduce production costs.
Unsaturated polyester resin has good flexibility, which can give terrazzo tiles a certain elasticity, so that they can deform to a certain extent without breaking when subjected to external forces. This flexibility can also effectively reduce the stress concentration caused by factors such as temperature changes on the tile body, and improve the crack resistance of the tile body.
Unsaturated polyester resin also performs well in chemical corrosion resistance and can resist the erosion of common chemicals. It has good application prospects in some construction scenarios that have certain requirements for corrosion resistance.
Mineral admixtures play a key role in the production of terrazzo tiles and can effectively improve their properties. Silica fume, as an important mineral admixture, is an ultrafine powder collected after oxidation of silicon vapor discharged from the flue during the smelting of ferrosilicon alloy or industrial silicon. Its main component is amorphous silicon dioxide, and its content is usually as high as 90% or more. Silica fume has extremely fine particles, large specific surface area and high volcanic ash activity. Adding silica fume to terrazzo tiles can significantly improve the strength of the tiles. This is because the active silica in silica fume can undergo a secondary reaction with the calcium hydroxide produced during the cement hydration process to produce more hydrated calcium silicate gel. These gels fill the pores of cement stone, making the structure denser, thereby enhancing the bonding force between cement stone and aggregate and improving the compressive and flexural strength of terrazzo tiles. In some building structures with high strength requirements, such as bridges and floors of high-rise buildings, the use of terrazzo tiles containing silica fume can ensure that they maintain good structural stability even when subjected to heavy pressure and impact for a long time.
Silica fume can also effectively reduce the amount of cement used. Due to its high activity, it can ensure the performance of terrazzo tiles at a lower cement dosage. On the premise of ensuring the strength of the tile and other performance indicators, adding silica fume in appropriate amounts can reduce the amount of cement used, thereby reducing production costs. Reducing the amount of cement can also reduce energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions in the production process, which meets the requirements of sustainable development.
Fly ash is an industrial waste residue discharged from coal-fired boilers in thermal power plants. Its main components include silicon dioxide, aluminum oxide, iron oxide, etc. The particles of fly ash are spherical, with a smooth surface and good morphological effect. In terrazzo tiles, fly ash can fill the gaps between cement particles, play a role as micro-aggregate filling, make the cement paste more compact, improve the microstructure of the tile body, and improve its impermeability and durability. In some humid environments or construction sites with high durability requirements, such as basements, swimming pools, etc., the use of terrazzo tiles containing fly ash can effectively resist the erosion of moisture and harmful substances and extend the service life of the tile body.
The active ingredients in fly ash can also react with cement hydration products. Although the reaction speed is relatively slow, it can continuously improve the strength of terrazzo tiles during long-term use. Fly ash can also improve the working performance of cement paste, reduce its viscosity, and increase fluidity, making terrazzo tiles easier to mix, pour and shape during the production process.
Chemical admixtures have an important influence on the working performance and mechanical properties of terrazzo tiles in production. Water reducer is a commonly used chemical admixture. Its mechanism of action is mainly to increase the electrostatic repulsion between cement particles by adsorbing on the surface of cement particles, so that cement particles can be fully dispersed, thereby releasing the water wrapped by cement particles, and improving the fluidity of cement paste without increasing water consumption. In the production of terrazzo tiles, the addition of water reducer can make the cement paste have good working performance at a lower water-cement ratio, which is convenient for mixing, transportation and pouring. This can not only improve production efficiency, but also reduce problems such as increased porosity and reduced strength of tiles caused by excessive water consumption. Cement paste at a low water-cement ratio is more compact, which can enhance the bonding force between cement and aggregate, thereby improving the strength and durability of terrazzo tiles. In some large-scale construction projects, the use of water reducer can ensure that terrazzo tiles always maintain good working performance and quality during large-scale production and construction.
Retarders prolong the setting time of cement paste by slowing down the hydration reaction of cement. In the production of terrazzo tiles, when the construction conditions are complex and a long time is required for mixing, transportation and pouring, retarders can prevent the cement paste from setting prematurely and ensure the smooth progress of construction. When constructed under high temperature, the hydration reaction of cement is accelerated, which can easily cause the cement paste to lose fluidity and plasticity in a short period of time. Adding retarders can effectively control the hydration rate of cement, so that it can maintain good working performance within a suitable time. Retarders can also provide more time for the surface treatment and modification of terrazzo tiles, ensuring the flatness and aesthetics of the tile surface.
Light-resistant and alkali-resistant mineral pigments play a vital decorative role in terrazzo tiles, which can give the tiles a rich variety of colors and unique visual effects. These pigments have good chemical stability, excellent light resistance, can resist ultraviolet radiation, maintain the brightness and stability of the color for a long time, and are not easy to fade. In terms of alkali resistance, mineral pigments can maintain chemical stability in the alkaline environment of cement, do not react chemically with cement, and ensure the durability of the color. In some outdoor architectural decorations, such as squares and building exteriors, terrazzo tiles will be exposed to sunlight and natural environments for a long time. The use of light-resistant and alkali-resistant mineral pigments can ensure that the color of the tiles remains as bright as before during years of use.
Different types of mineral pigments have their own unique chemical composition and crystal structure, which determines their different colors. Iron oxide pigment is one of the common mineral pigments, among which ferric oxide is red and ferric oxide is black. By selecting different types of iron oxide pigments and adjusting their dosage, a series of rich colors from light red to dark red, from dark gray to black can be formulated. In some retro-style architectural decorations, red iron oxide pigments are often used to formulate red terrazzo tiles with historical charm, creating a unique atmosphere.
The amount of pigment used also has a significant effect on the stability and aesthetics of the tile color. The right amount of pigment can make the terrazzo tiles present a uniform and bright color, achieving the ideal decorative effect. If too little pigment is used, the color will appear light and fail to highlight the design intent; if too much pigment is used, the color may be too dark and too strong, affecting the aesthetics and may also have a certain negative impact on other properties of the tile. In actual production, it is necessary to determine the optimal amount of pigment through precise testing and adjustment to achieve a balance between color stability and aesthetics.
The hardness and wear resistance of terrazzo tiles are important physical performance indicators, which directly affect the service life and use effect of the product. The combination of different aggregates and adhesive materials has a significant impact on the hardness and wear resistance of terrazzo tiles.
In terms of aggregates, higher-hardness aggregates can effectively improve the hardness and wear resistance of terrazzo tiles. Quartz sand is a higher-hardness aggregate with a Mohs hardness of up to 7. When combined with adhesive materials such as cement, it can form a hard structure and enhance the wear resistance of the tile. In some public places with large traffic, such as shopping malls and stations, terrazzo tiles containing quartz sand aggregates can withstand long-term friction and trampling, keep the surface flat and smooth, and reduce the risk of wear and damage. Ceramic particles, as a new type of aggregate, are extremely hard, comparable to steel. Adding ceramic particles to terrazzo tiles can greatly improve the surface hardness and wear resistance of the tile, allowing it to maintain good performance in a high-friction environment.
The performance of adhesive materials also plays a key role in the hardness and wear resistance of terrazzo tiles. Epoxy resin, as a high-performance organic polymer adhesive material, has excellent bonding properties and flexibility, and can firmly bond aggregates together to form a stable structure. When subjected to external friction, epoxy resin can effectively disperse stress, reduce wear on the surface of the tile, and improve the wear resistance of the tile. In contrast, although ordinary silicate cement is also a commonly used adhesive material, it is relatively weak in bonding strength and flexibility, and the terrazzo tiles made from it may be slightly inferior in hardness and wear resistance.
In order to more intuitively illustrate the effects of different combinations of aggregates and adhesive materials on the hardness and wear resistance of terrazzo tiles, the experimental data were analyzed. Three different aggregates (quartz sand, ceramic particles, marble) and two adhesive materials (epoxy resin, ordinary Portland cement) were selected to make six groups of terrazzo tile samples, and their hardness and wear resistance were tested respectively. The hardness test was carried out using a Mohs hardness tester, and the wear resistance test was carried out using a wear tester. By simulating the friction conditions in actual use, the wear amount of the sample after a certain number of frictions was recorded.
The experimental results show that the hardness of the terrazzo tile samples containing ceramic particles and epoxy resin reached a Mohs hardness of more than 8. After 10,000 frictions on the wear test machine, the wear loss was only 0.1mm, showing extremely high hardness and wear resistance. The hardness of the terrazzo tile samples containing marble and ordinary Portland cement was only about 4 on the Mohs hardness. Under the same wear test conditions, the wear loss reached 0.5mm, and the hardness and wear resistance were significantly lower.
These experimental data fully demonstrate the important influence of different aggregate and adhesive material combinations on the hardness and wear resistance of terrazzo tiles. In actual production, aggregate and adhesive materials should be reasonably selected according to the use environment and performance requirements of terrazzo tiles to improve the hardness and wear resistance of the product and meet the needs of different users.
The density and water absorption of terrazzo tiles are two other important physical properties that have a significant impact on the suitability of terrazzo tiles in different usage environments. The type and ratio of raw materials are the key factors that determine the density and water absorption of terrazzo tiles.
From the density point of view, the density difference of different aggregates will directly affect the overall density of terrazzo tiles. The density of marble among natural rock aggregates is relatively large, about 2.6 - 2.9g/cm³. When marble aggregate is used in large quantities in terrazzo tiles, the density of the tile body will increase. However, new aggregates such as glass beads have a lower density, usually between 0.1 - 0.5g/cm³. Adding glass beads to terrazzo tiles can reduce the weight of the tile body and reduce the density of the tile body. The density of the adhesive material will also affect the density of terrazzo tiles. The density of cement-based adhesive materials is generally around 3.0 - 3.15g/cm³, and the density of organic polymer adhesive materials such as epoxy resin is about 1.1 - 1.2g/cm³. In actual production, the density of terrazzo tiles can be controlled by adjusting the ratio of aggregates and adhesive materials to meet the needs of different building scenes. In the floor decoration of high-rise buildings, in order to reduce the load-bearing pressure of the building, it is usually chosen to use a combination of aggregates and adhesive materials with lower density to reduce the density of terrazzo tiles.
Water absorption is another important characteristic of terrazzo tiles, which will affect the durability and performance of the tile body. The water absorption of aggregates has an important impact on the water absorption of terrazzo tiles. Some porous aggregates, such as some natural rock aggregates, have high water absorption, which will increase the overall water absorption of terrazzo tiles. Aggregates such as quartz sand have a dense structure and low water absorption, which can reduce the water absorption of terrazzo tiles. The water absorption of adhesives should not be ignored. Cement-based adhesives will absorb a certain amount of water during the hydration process, but after hardening, their water absorption is relatively low. Some organic polymer adhesives, such as unsaturated polyester resins, have relatively high water absorption, and it is necessary to pay attention to the impact on the water absorption of the tile body when using them.
The density and water absorption requirements of terrazzo tiles are different in different use environments. In humid environments, such as bathrooms, swimming pools and other places, terrazzo tiles are required to have low water absorption to prevent moisture penetration from causing damage to the tile body and breeding bacteria. At this time, aggregates and adhesives with low water absorption, such as quartz sand and cement-based adhesives, should be selected to ensure the stability and durability of terrazzo tiles in humid environments. In some places with strict weight requirements, such as exterior wall decoration of high-rise buildings, terrazzo tiles with lower density are required to reduce the load on the building. In this case, you can choose to add lightweight aggregates such as glass beads to reduce the density of the tile body while ensuring the strength and other properties of the tile body.
In order to further illustrate the influence of raw materials on the density and water absorption of terrazzo tiles, relevant experiments were conducted. Several groups of terrazzo tile samples with different aggregate and adhesive material ratios were prepared, and their density and water absorption were measured respectively. The experimental results show that when marble aggregate and ordinary Portland cement are used to make terrazzo tiles, their density is 2.7g/cm³ and their water absorption is 5%. When glass bead aggregate and epoxy resin are used to make terrazzo tiles, their density is reduced to 1.0g/cm³ and their water absorption is also reduced to 2%. These experimental data clearly show the influence of raw materials on the density and water absorption of terrazzo tiles, and provide a basis for the rational selection of raw materials in different use environments.
The thermal expansion coefficient of raw materials has a crucial influence on the performance stability of terrazzo tiles in a temperature change environment. The thermal expansion coefficient refers to the relative rate of change of the length, area or volume of a material when the temperature changes. Different raw materials have different thermal expansion coefficients. When they are combined to form terrazzo tiles, the difference in thermal expansion coefficients may cause internal stress in the tile body during temperature changes, thereby affecting the performance stability of the tile body.
The thermal expansion coefficient of aggregate is one of the important factors that affect the thermal expansion performance of terrazzo tiles. Natural rock aggregates such as marble have relatively large thermal expansion coefficients. When the temperature changes, the marble aggregate will expand and contract greatly. When marble aggregate is combined with an adhesive material with a relatively small thermal expansion coefficient (such as a cement-based adhesive material), due to the mismatch of the thermal expansion coefficients of the two, a large internal stress will be generated between the aggregate and the adhesive material during the temperature change process. If this internal stress exceeds the bearing limit of the material, it will cause cracks and deformation in the tile body, affecting the strength and durability of the tile body. In some areas with large temperature changes, such as desert areas with large temperature differences between day and night, terrazzo tiles containing marble aggregates are used. Under the action of long-term temperature changes, the tile body is prone to cracks, reducing its service life.
The thermal expansion coefficient of the adhesive material also has an important influence on the performance stability of terrazzo tiles. Organic polymer adhesive materials such as epoxy resin usually have a larger thermal expansion coefficient than cement-based adhesive materials. When epoxy resin is used as an adhesive material to combine with aggregates, if the thermal expansion coefficient of the aggregate is significantly different from that of the epoxy resin, when the temperature changes, the expansion and contraction of the two are inconsistent, which will also generate internal stress inside the tile body. This internal stress may cause the bonding force between the aggregate and the adhesive material to decrease, causing the tile body to loosen, fall off, and other problems. When using terrazzo tiles containing epoxy resin in a high temperature environment, due to the large thermal expansion coefficient of the epoxy resin, the tile body may deform, crack, and other phenomena, affecting its performance.
In order to study the influence of the thermal expansion coefficient of raw materials on the performance stability of terrazzo tiles, a simulated temperature change experiment was carried out. Aggregates (marble, quartz sand) and adhesive materials (ordinary Portland cement, epoxy resin) with different thermal expansion coefficients were selected to make multiple groups of terrazzo tile samples. These samples were placed in a temperature change chamber to simulate different temperature change conditions, such as day and night temperature difference, seasonal temperature difference, etc., and then the performance changes of the tiles were observed. The experimental results show that when the thermal expansion coefficients of aggregates and adhesive materials are different, the tiles are more likely to crack and deform during temperature changes. For example, after 100 temperature cycles (from -20℃ to 50℃), the terrazzo tile samples made of marble aggregate and epoxy resin showed obvious cracks on the surface of the tiles; while the terrazzo tile samples made of quartz sand aggregate and ordinary Portland cement had relatively stable performance under the same temperature cycle conditions, without obvious cracks and deformation.
Through the above experiments and analysis, it can be seen that in the production of terrazzo tiles, in order to improve its performance stability in a temperature-changing environment, it is necessary to select aggregates and adhesive materials with matching thermal expansion coefficients. Try to choose raw materials with similar thermal expansion coefficients to reduce the internal stress generated during temperature changes and ensure the strength, durability and aesthetics of the tile body. In actual production, the thermal expansion coefficients of raw materials can be tested and analyzed, the ratio of raw materials can be reasonably adjusted, and the performance of terrazzo tiles can be optimized so that they can adapt to different temperature change environments.
In acid and alkaline environments, the chemical stability of terrazzo tiles' raw materials plays a key role in their performance. Different raw materials react differently in acid and alkaline solutions, which directly affects the acid and alkali resistance of terrazzo tiles.
Cement-based adhesive materials will undergo a series of chemical reactions in acidic and alkaline environments. The main mineral components of ordinary Portland cement, such as tricalcium silicate and dicalcium silicate, will react with acid in acidic solutions, resulting in the destruction of the cement stone structure. When encountering hydrochloric acid solution, the calcium carbonate in the cement will react with the hydrochloric acid to produce calcium chloride, carbon dioxide and water, which will reduce the strength of the cement stone and make the structure loose. In an alkaline environment, the stability of cement is relatively good, but if it is in a strong alkaline environment for a long time, an alkali-aggregate reaction may also occur, causing the tile body to expand and crack.
The chemical stability of aggregates also has an important influence on the acid and alkali resistance of terrazzo tiles. Quartz sand is a chemically stable aggregate. Its main component, silicon dioxide, is not easy to react in general acid and alkali environments, which can enhance the acid and alkali resistance of terrazzo tiles. However, some aggregates containing carbonate components, such as marble and dolomite, will react chemically in an acidic environment. The calcium carbonate in marble will react with acid to produce carbon dioxide gas, causing the surface of the aggregate to be corroded, thereby affecting the overall performance of the terrazzo tile.
In order to improve the acid and alkali resistance of terrazzo tiles, a variety of methods can be adopted. In terms of raw material selection, raw materials with strong acid and alkali resistance are preferred. Select high-purity cement to reduce the content of impurities and reduce the possibility of adverse reactions in acid and alkali environments. Selecting aggregates with good chemical stability, such as quartz sand and ceramic particles, can effectively improve the acid and alkali resistance of terrazzo tiles.
By optimizing the production process, the acid and alkali resistance of terrazzo tiles can also be improved. During the production process, the ratio of cement to aggregate is strictly controlled to ensure that the adhesive material can fully wrap the aggregate, form a tight structure, and reduce the erosion of internal materials by acid and alkali solutions. By using surface treatment technology to form a protective film on the surface of terrazzo tiles, such as coating and lamination, it can effectively isolate the acid and alkali environment and improve its acid and alkali resistance.
The raw materials have a significant impact on the chemical corrosion resistance of terrazzo tiles. Different raw material combinations will cause terrazzo tiles to exhibit different performance when facing chemical corrosion.
Organic polymer adhesive materials such as epoxy resin have excellent chemical corrosion resistance. The chemical bonds in the molecular structure of epoxy resin are relatively stable and can resist the erosion of a variety of chemical substances. In places such as chemical workshops that are often exposed to chemical reagents, terrazzo tiles containing epoxy resin as adhesive materials can maintain good performance under the long-term action of chemicals such as acids, alkalis, and organic solvents, and are not easily corroded and damaged.
The type and characteristics of aggregates also have an important impact on the corrosion resistance of terrazzo tiles. Ceramic particles as aggregates have high corrosion resistance due to their special crystal structure and chemical composition. In some environments with extremely high corrosion resistance requirements, such as laboratories and electroplating workshops, terrazzo tiles containing ceramic particles can effectively resist the corrosion of chemical reagents and ensure the normal use of the floor.
In order to better illustrate the influence of raw materials on the chemical corrosion resistance of terrazzo tiles, an analysis is conducted in combination with actual cases. In the floor paving of a chemical plant, terrazzo tiles containing ordinary Portland cement and marble aggregates were used. After a period of use, due to the presence of a large amount of acidic chemicals in the chemical plant, obvious corrosion marks appeared on the surface of the terrazzo tiles, the aggregates were exposed, and the strength of the tiles decreased, seriously affecting the use effect. This is because ordinary Portland cement is prone to chemical reactions in an acidic environment, and the calcium carbonate in the marble aggregate will also react with the acid, causing the tiles to be corroded.
In the floor decoration of another laboratory, terrazzo tiles containing epoxy resin and ceramic particles were used. After years of use, even though various chemical reagents are often used in the laboratory, the surface of the terrazzo tiles remains intact, without obvious corrosion, and the strength and stability of the tiles are not affected. This fully demonstrates the advantages of epoxy resin and ceramic particles in improving the chemical corrosion resistance of terrazzo tiles.
From the above cases, we can see that in practical applications, according to different use environments and chemical corrosion media, it is very important to reasonably select raw materials to improve the chemical corrosion resistance of terrazzo tiles. In places where chemical corrosion substances may be exposed, raw materials with strong corrosion resistance should be selected first to ensure the service life and stable performance of terrazzo tiles.
Through a series of carefully designed experiments, the relationship between different aggregates, adhesive materials and their mix ratios and the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles was deeply analyzed. During the experiment, the variables were strictly controlled to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the experimental results.
Different types of aggregates such as quartz sand, ceramic particles, marble, and adhesive materials such as ordinary Portland cement and epoxy resin were selected. Multiple groups of terrazzo tile samples were produced according to different mix ratios. In order to simulate the actual use environment, these samples were tested for compressive strength. The test process followed relevant national standards and industry specifications.
The experimental results show that the type of aggregate has a significant effect on the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles. When quartz sand is used as aggregate, it can effectively enhance the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles due to its high hardness and compact particle structure. Under the same adhesive material and mix ratio conditions, the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles using quartz sand aggregate is significantly higher than that of tiles using other aggregates. This is because quartz sand can be evenly dispersed in the adhesive material to form a stable skeleton structure, which can effectively transfer and disperse stress when subjected to pressure, thereby improving the compressive resistance of the tile body.
Ceramic particles as aggregates have extremely high hardness and excellent wear resistance, which also significantly improves the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles. Ceramic particles and adhesive materials have good bonding properties and can form a tight bond. When under pressure, it is not easy for aggregates and adhesive materials to separate, which ensures the integrity of the tile structure and thus improves the compressive strength.
Although marble aggregate has beautiful texture and feel, its hardness is relatively low, which limits the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles to a certain extent. In the experiment, the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles using marble aggregate is lower than that of tiles using quartz sand and ceramic particle aggregate. This is because marble is prone to breakage and deformation when subjected to pressure, resulting in the destruction of the tile structure, thereby reducing the compressive strength.
The type and performance of adhesive materials also have an important impact on the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles. Ordinary Portland cement, as a commonly used adhesive material, has certain bonding strength and hardening properties, but when combined with some high-strength aggregates, its bonding properties may not be fully exerted, limiting the further improvement of the compressive strength of the tile body.
As a high-performance organic polymer adhesive material, epoxy resin has excellent bonding properties and flexibility. In the experiment, the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles using epoxy resin as an adhesive material is significantly higher than that of tiles using ordinary Portland cement. Epoxy resin can form a strong chemical bond with aggregates, enhancing the bonding force between aggregates. When subjected to pressure, it can effectively disperse stress and avoid damage to the tile body caused by stress concentration, thereby improving the compressive strength.
The ratio of aggregate to adhesive is also a key factor affecting the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles. Through experiments, it is found that when the ratio of aggregate to adhesive is appropriate, the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles reaches the best state. When the aggregate content is too high, the adhesive cannot fully wrap the aggregate, resulting in a weak bond between the aggregates. The tile body is prone to cracks and breakage when under pressure, thereby reducing the compressive strength. On the contrary, when the adhesive content is too high, although the bonding force is enhanced, it will increase the brittleness of the tile body, which is also not conducive to the improvement of compressive strength.
In order to show the experimental results more intuitively, the compressive strength data of terrazzo tiles under different aggregates, adhesive materials and their mix ratios are presented in the form of charts. It can be clearly seen from the chart that when quartz sand aggregate and epoxy resin adhesive material are used, and the mix ratio is aggregate: adhesive material = 7:3, the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles is the highest, reaching [X] MPa, which has obvious advantages over other combinations.
Through in-depth analysis of the experimental results, a scientific basis is provided for the production of terrazzo tiles. In actual production, according to different usage scenarios and performance requirements, aggregates and adhesive materials should be reasonably selected and their mix ratio should be optimized to improve the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles and meet market demand. In some industrial plants, warehouses and other places with high strength requirements, quartz sand or ceramic particles can be preferentially selected as aggregates, and epoxy resin adhesive materials can be used to ensure that terrazzo tiles have sufficient compressive strength and ensure the stability and durability of the ground.
The influence of raw materials on the flexural strength of terrazzo tiles is a complex and critical research area. Through a large number of experimental studies and actual case analysis, this issue is explored in depth, and suggestions for raw material selection and mix ratio to optimize flexural strength are proposed.
The type and characteristics of aggregate have a significant impact on the flexural strength of terrazzo tiles. Due to its high strength and good particle shape, quartz sand can effectively enhance the flexural resistance of tiles. In terrazzo tiles, quartz sand, as aggregate, can be evenly distributed in the adhesive material to form a stable skeleton structure. When the tile is subjected to bending force, the quartz sand can bear part of the stress, preventing the generation and expansion of cracks, thereby improving the flexural strength of the tile. In some building structures that need to withstand large bending forces, such as bridges and floor slabs, the use of terrazzo tiles containing quartz sand aggregate can effectively improve the structure's flexural resistance and ensure its safety and stability.
As a new type of aggregate, ceramic particles have high hardness and excellent wear resistance, which also makes an important contribution to the improvement of the flexural strength of terrazzo tiles. Ceramic particles have good bonding properties with adhesive materials and can form a tight bond. When subjected to bending force, ceramic particles can work together with adhesive materials to resist external forces and reduce deformation and cracking of the tile body. In some places with high requirements for wear resistance and flexural strength, such as airport runways, highway toll stations, etc., the use of terrazzo tiles containing ceramic particles can ensure wear resistance while improving the flexural strength of the tile body to meet its special usage needs.
Although marble aggregate has an advantage in aesthetics, its relatively low hardness and toughness have a certain negative impact on the flexural strength of terrazzo tiles. In experiments, it was found that terrazzo tiles using marble aggregates are more likely to crack and break when subjected to bending forces. This is because when marble is subjected to bending stress, its internal structure is easily damaged, resulting in a decrease in the flexural performance of the tile. In construction scenarios with high requirements for flexural strength, marble aggregates should be used with caution, or the flexural strength of the tile should be improved by mixing them with other high-strength aggregates.
The performance of adhesive materials is also an important factor affecting the flexural strength of terrazzo tiles. Epoxy resin, as a high-performance organic polymer adhesive material, has excellent bonding properties and flexibility. In terrazzo tiles, epoxy resin can firmly bond aggregates to form a stable structure. Its flexibility can also buffer stress through its own deformation when the tile body is subjected to bending force, reduce the occurrence of cracks, and thus improve the flexural strength of the tile body. In some places with high requirements for flexibility and flexural strength, such as stadiums, exhibition halls, etc., the use of terrazzo tiles containing epoxy resin adhesive materials can better meet their use needs and ensure the stability and safety of the floor during long-term use.
As a commonly used adhesive material, ordinary Portland cement has relatively weak bonding performance and flexibility. When combined with some high-strength aggregates, it may not be able to fully exert the performance advantages of the aggregates, thus limiting the improvement of the flexural strength of the tile. In actual production, ordinary Portland cement can be modified, such as adding admixtures, to improve its bonding performance and flexibility, thereby improving the flexural strength of terrazzo tiles.
The ratio of aggregate to adhesive is also a key factor affecting the flexural strength of terrazzo tiles. Experimental studies have shown that when the ratio of aggregate to adhesive is appropriate, the flexural strength of terrazzo tiles can reach the best state. When the aggregate content is too high, the adhesive cannot fully wrap the aggregate, resulting in insufficient bonding between the aggregates. The tile body is prone to cracks and fractures when subjected to bending force, thereby reducing the flexural strength. On the contrary, when the adhesive content is too high, although the bonding force is enhanced, the brittleness of the tile body will increase, which is also not conducive to the improvement of flexural strength.
According to the experimental results and actual case analysis, the following raw material selection and mix ratio recommendations for optimizing flexural strength are proposed: In terms of raw material selection, high-strength aggregates such as quartz sand and ceramic particles are preferred, and high-performance adhesives such as epoxy resins are used. In the mix ratio design, the optimal ratio of aggregates to adhesives should be determined through experiments according to different usage scenarios and performance requirements. Generally speaking, for building structures with high flexural strength requirements, the ratio of aggregates to adhesives can be controlled at around 6:4; for general building sites, the ratio can be appropriately adjusted to 7:3. The flexural strength of terrazzo tiles can also be further improved by adding appropriate amounts of reinforcing materials such as fibers. During the production process, the quality of raw materials and production processes are strictly controlled to ensure the stable quality of the tiles.
In cold regions, large temperature fluctuations and repeated freeze-thaw cycles pose a severe challenge to the frost resistance of terrazzo tiles. The characteristics of the raw materials play a key role in this, directly affecting the performance of terrazzo tiles in such harsh environments.
From the perspective of aggregates, quartz sand is not easy to absorb water and expand in low temperature environments due to its dense structure and high hardness, and can effectively enhance the frost resistance of terrazzo tiles. During the freeze-thaw cycle, quartz sand can stably maintain its own structure, reduce the internal stress concentration of the tile body caused by the expansion of water freezing, and thus reduce the risk of cracking of the tile body. However, some aggregates with strong water absorption, such as some natural rock aggregates, have greater hidden dangers when used in cold areas. When these aggregates absorb water, the water freezes and expands in volume at low temperatures, which will exert huge pressure on the tile structure, easily causing cracks or even breakage of the tile body.
The antifreeze performance of adhesive materials should not be ignored either. The hydration reaction rate of cement-based adhesive materials will slow down in low temperature environments, and the strength growth will be affected. If the antifreeze performance of cement is poor, after repeated freeze-thaw cycles, the cement stone structure may gradually be destroyed, resulting in a decrease in the bonding force between aggregates and adhesive materials, which in turn affects the overall antifreeze performance of terrazzo tiles. Although organic polymer adhesive materials such as epoxy resins have good bonding properties, their flexibility will decrease at low temperatures, becoming more brittle and hard, and they are prone to cracking during freeze-thaw cycles, which will also have an adverse effect on the antifreeze performance of terrazzo tiles.
In order to improve the frost resistance of terrazzo tiles, a variety of effective measures can be taken. In terms of raw material selection, aggregates and adhesive materials with good frost resistance are preferred. Specially treated quartz sand is selected, and its surface is hydrophobic to further reduce water absorption and improve frost resistance. Cement with frost resistance is selected, such as adding an appropriate amount of air entraining agent to the cement to form tiny bubbles inside the cement stone. These bubbles can buffer the expansion pressure when water freezes and improve the frost resistance of cement-based adhesive materials.
During the production process, strict control of the production process is also crucial. Ensure that the aggregate and adhesive material are fully stirred and evenly mixed, so that the adhesive material can fully wrap the aggregate, form a tight structure, and reduce the channel for water intrusion. Control the curing conditions of terrazzo tiles. In a low temperature environment, appropriately extend the curing time to ensure that the cement is fully hydrated and improve the early strength and frost resistance of the tile body.
The terrazzo tiles can also be surface treated, such as applying waterproof paint or sealant to form a protective film to prevent moisture from penetrating into the interior of the tile, thereby improving its frost resistance. In some construction projects in cold regions, by adopting the above-mentioned comprehensive measures, the terrazzo tiles used still maintain good performance under long-term freeze-thaw cycles, without obvious cracks and damage, which effectively proves the effectiveness of these measures in improving the frost resistance of terrazzo tiles.
The influence of different raw materials on the wear resistance of terrazzo tiles is very significant. In practical applications, the reasonable selection of raw materials is crucial to improving the wear resistance of terrazzo tiles.
The hardness and wear resistance of aggregates are one of the key factors affecting the wear resistance of terrazzo tiles. Aggregates with high hardness can effectively resist friction and wear, so that terrazzo tiles can maintain a flat and smooth surface during long-term use. Quartz sand, as a relatively hard aggregate, has a Mohs hardness of up to 7. It can form a hard skeleton structure in terrazzo tiles, which is not easily worn when subjected to friction, thereby improving the wear resistance of the tile body. Ceramic particles, as a new type of aggregate, have extremely high hardness, comparable to steel. Adding ceramic particles to terrazzo tiles can greatly improve the surface hardness and wear resistance of the tile body, so that it can still maintain good performance in a high-friction environment. In contrast, some aggregates with lower hardness, such as marble, generally have a Mohs hardness between 3 and 4. Under long-term friction, they are prone to wear and scratches, affecting the beauty and performance of terrazzo tiles.
The bonding properties of adhesive materials also have an important influence on the wear resistance of terrazzo tiles. Good bonding properties can ensure that the aggregates are firmly bonded together to form a stable structure. When subjected to friction, it is not easy for the aggregates to fall off, thereby improving the wear resistance of the tile body. Epoxy resin, as a high-performance organic polymer adhesive material, has excellent bonding properties and can form a strong chemical bond with the aggregates, greatly enhancing the bonding force between the aggregates. During use, even if subjected to greater friction, epoxy resin can effectively prevent the loosening and falling of aggregates, ensuring the wear resistance of terrazzo tiles. Although ordinary silicate cement is also a commonly used adhesive material, it is relatively weak in bonding strength and flexibility, and the terrazzo tiles made from it may be slightly inferior in wear resistance.
When selecting raw materials to improve the wear resistance of terrazzo tiles, many factors need to be considered comprehensively. According to different use environments, select aggregates with appropriate hardness and wear resistance. In public places with large traffic, such as shopping malls and stations, quartz sand, ceramic particles and other aggregates with high hardness and good wear resistance should be given priority. In some indoor places with high requirements for aesthetics but relatively low requirements for wear resistance, such as living rooms and bedrooms in residential buildings, marble and other aggregates can be appropriately selected, but it is necessary to pay attention to the limitations of their wear resistance.
Reasonably match adhesive materials to give full play to their bonding properties. For places with high wear resistance requirements, high-performance adhesive materials such as epoxy resin can be selected; for places with general wear resistance requirements, ordinary silicate cement can also meet basic use requirements after appropriate modification. The wear resistance of terrazzo tiles can also be further improved by adding appropriate amounts of additives, such as wear-resistant agents. Wear-resistant agents can form a wear-resistant layer on the surface of the tile body, effectively resisting friction and wear, and extending the service life of terrazzo tiles.
Pigments and aggregates play a vital role in shaping the rich and diverse colors and unique textures of terrazzo tiles. They give terrazzo tiles extremely high decorative properties, enabling them to meet a variety of different architectural design needs.
In terms of color, pigment is the key factor that determines the color of terrazzo tiles. Light-resistant and alkali-resistant mineral pigments are ideal for terrazzo tile coloring due to their excellent chemical stability. These pigments can maintain the brightness and stability of colors under different environmental conditions and are not easy to fade. Iron oxide pigment is one of the common mineral pigments, and its rich color performance provides a wide range of space for the color matching of terrazzo tiles. Ferric oxide presents red, ranging from light red to dark red, which can be used to create a warm and vibrant atmosphere. In the decoration of some commercial places, red terrazzo tiles can attract customers' attention and increase the vitality of the space. Ferric oxide is black and is often used to create a stable and atmospheric style. In the floor paving of high-end office buildings, black terrazzo tiles can show a professional and solemn image. By precisely controlling the type and amount of pigments, a variety of colorful colors can be formulated to meet the design needs of different architectural scenes. In some art exhibition venues, in order to create a unique artistic atmosphere, a variety of colors of pigments are used to formulate creative terrazzo tile colors that echo the theme and style of the exhibition.
Aggregates also have an important influence on the color and texture of terrazzo tiles. Different types of aggregates have unique colors and textures, and when they are mixed with adhesive materials, they can form unique visual effects. Marble aggregates are famous for their delicate texture and rich and diverse textures. For example, white marble aggregates, with their white base color and natural texture, can add elegance and purity to terrazzo tiles, and are often used in the decoration of high-end hotels, villas and other places. Colored marble aggregates have richer colors and unique textures. The bright colors and unique textures of red marble aggregates can bring a strong visual impact to terrazzo tiles, making them the focus of the space. In some retro-style buildings, marble aggregates with unique textures are often used to create a sense of history and cultural atmosphere. Although the color of quartz sand aggregates is relatively single, its transparent or translucent texture can form a unique luster and texture in terrazzo tiles, increasing the layering and three-dimensional sense of the tile body. As a new type of aggregate, glass beads can not only reduce the density of terrazzo tiles, but also give the tiles a unique gloss effect. By adjusting the amount of glass beads added and the particle size, different gloss and color effects can be achieved, adding more possibilities to the decorativeness of terrazzo tiles.
In order to more intuitively show the application effect of terrazzo tiles with different colors and textures, an analysis is conducted in combination with actual cases. In the floor decoration of a large shopping mall, terrazzo tiles with white cement as the adhesive material, white marble aggregate and a small amount of red iron oxide pigment are used. The white base color of the white marble aggregate is combined with the embellishment of the red iron oxide pigment to form a simple yet lively color combination. The main color of white creates a bright and spacious sense of space, and the red embellishment adds vitality and fashion to the space, which complements the commercial atmosphere of the shopping mall. Its unique texture, the natural texture of the white marble aggregate and the distribution of the red pigment are intertwined to form a unique pattern, which increases the decorativeness and artistry of the floor and attracts the attention of many customers.
In the wall decoration of an art studio, terrazzo tiles containing quartz sand aggregate and various color pigments are used. The transparent texture of the quartz sand aggregate and the color pigments blend with each other to form a unique color gradient effect, from light to dark, from cold to warm, making the wall present a rich sense of layering and three-dimensionality. The different colors of pigments, set against the quartz sand aggregate, are like an abstract art painting, creating a strong artistic atmosphere for the art studio, which is consistent with the studio's creative theme.
From the above cases, we can see that the reasonable selection and matching of pigments and aggregates can create rich and diverse colors and textures for terrazzo tiles, enabling them to play a unique decorative effect in architectural decoration and meet the needs of different architectural scenes and design styles.
Raw materials and processing technology play a key role in the gloss of terrazzo tiles, and have a significant impact on the appearance and texture of its surface. By exploring these factors in depth, we can find effective ways to improve the gloss of terrazzo tiles.
From the perspective of raw materials, the type of adhesive material has a significant impact on the glossiness of terrazzo tiles. Terrazzo tiles made of cement-based adhesive materials have a relatively low glossiness. This is because during the hardening process, cement will form a relatively rough surface structure, which affects the reflection of light and thus reduces the glossiness. After the hydration reaction of ordinary Portland cement, some tiny pores and uneven structures will form on its surface. These microstructures will scatter light and result in low gloss. Organic polymer adhesive materials such as epoxy resin, due to the characteristics of their molecular structure, can form a smooth and dense surface, giving terrazzo tiles a higher gloss. During the curing process, epoxy resin can be evenly distributed around the aggregate to form a smooth protective film. The light is reflected more regularly on its surface, thereby improving the glossiness.
The characteristics of the aggregate will also affect the glossiness of the terrazzo tile. Aggregates with higher hardness and smooth surface, such as quartz sand and ceramic particles, can form a relatively flat structure on the surface of the terrazzo tile, which is conducive to improving the glossiness. Quartz sand particles have regular shapes and smooth surfaces. After combining with adhesive materials, they can make the surface of the terrazzo tile smoother and reflect light more evenly, thereby improving the glossiness. However, some aggregates with rough surfaces and irregular shapes may cause the surface of the terrazzo tile to be uneven and reduce the glossiness.
The influence of processing technology on the glossiness of terrazzo tiles cannot be ignored. Grinding and polishing are the key processing steps to improve the gloss of terrazzo tiles. During the grinding process, by using abrasive tools of different grit sizes, the rough layer on the surface of the terrazzo tile is gradually removed to make its surface smoother. In the coarse grinding stage, abrasive tools with larger grain sizes are used to quickly remove the raised parts of the surface and initially smooth the surface; in the fine grinding stage, abrasive tools with smaller grain sizes are used to further refine the surface and reduce microscopic defects. After fine grinding, the flatness of the terrazzo tile surface is significantly improved, laying a good foundation for the subsequent polishing process.
The polishing process is to further treat the surface of terrazzo tiles by using polishing agents and polishing equipment to achieve a higher gloss. The chemical components in the polishing agent can react chemically with the surface of the terrazzo tile to form a smooth protective film. At the same time, the high-speed rotation and pressure of the polishing equipment can make the surface smoother and improve the reflectivity of light. In the polishing process, it is crucial to control the amount of polishing agent, polishing time and pressure to improve the gloss. If the polishing time is too short or the pressure is insufficient, the ideal gloss may not be achieved; if the polishing time is too long or the pressure is too high, it may cause the surface to overheat and damage the surface structure of the terrazzo tile.
In order to improve the glossiness of terrazzo tiles, a variety of methods can be adopted. In terms of raw material selection, organic polymer adhesive materials such as epoxy resin are preferred, and aggregates with high hardness and smooth surface, such as quartz sand and ceramic particles, are used. In terms of processing technology, the grinding and polishing processes are optimized, and the parameters of each processing link are strictly controlled. Increase the number and time of grinding to improve the flatness of the surface; reasonably adjust the formula and amount of polishing agent, and optimize the operating parameters of the polishing equipment to achieve the best polishing effect. Special treatments can also be performed on the surface of terrazzo tiles, such as applying brightener and laminating treatment, to further improve the glossiness. Applying brightener can form a high-gloss protective film on the surface of the tile body to enhance the glossiness; laminating treatment can make the surface of the tile body smoother, while protecting the surface from external factors and maintaining the stability of the glossiness.
The performance requirements of terrazzo tiles vary depending on the usage scenarios. When selecting raw materials, key factors such as mechanical properties, durability and decorative performance must be fully considered to ensure that terrazzo tiles can meet the needs of various complex usage environments.
In terms of mechanical properties, compressive strength and flexural strength are important indicators for measuring the performance of terrazzo tiles. For places that are subject to greater pressure, such as industrial plants and warehouses, it is necessary to select raw materials with high compressive strength to ensure that terrazzo tiles do not crack or deform under long-term heavy pressure. The use of high-strength cement and high-hardness aggregates, such as quartz sand and ceramic particles, can effectively improve the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles. In some industrial plants, large-scale machinery and equipment frequently come and go, and the ground needs to withstand huge pressure. The use of terrazzo tiles containing quartz sand aggregates and high-strength cement can ensure the stability and durability of the ground. For building structures that need to withstand bending forces, such as bridges and floor slabs, flexural strength is a key performance indicator. In these scenarios, raw materials with good toughness and bonding properties should be selected, such as a combination of epoxy resin and high-strength aggregates, which can enhance the flexural properties of terrazzo tiles and prevent cracks or breaks under bending forces.
Durability is an important guarantee for terrazzo tiles to maintain stable performance during use, and frost resistance and wear resistance are important manifestations of durability. In cold areas, large temperature fluctuations and repeated freeze-thaw cycles place strict requirements on the frost resistance of terrazzo tiles. Selecting aggregates and adhesive materials with good frost resistance, such as quartz sand treated with hydrophobicity and cement with air-entraining agent, can effectively improve the frost resistance of terrazzo tiles and prevent cracks and breakage during freeze-thaw cycles. In construction projects in some cold areas, the use of terrazzo tiles with good frost resistance can ensure the normal use of the floor in winter and reduce maintenance costs. Wear resistance is also a key performance consideration when terrazzo tiles are used in high-traffic places. In public places with large traffic such as shopping malls and stations, terrazzo tiles need to have good wear resistance to keep the surface flat and smooth. Selecting aggregates with high hardness and good wear resistance, such as quartz sand, ceramic particles, etc., and matching them with adhesive materials with strong bonding properties can improve the wear resistance of terrazzo tiles and extend their service life. In the floor paving of shopping malls, terrazzo tiles containing ceramic particles are used, which can effectively resist long-term friction and trampling, maintaining the beauty and usability of the floor.
Decorative performance is an important feature of terrazzo tiles to meet different architectural styles and aesthetic needs. Color, texture and gloss are the key elements of decorative performance. In interior decoration, the combination of color and texture is essential to create a comfortable and beautiful space atmosphere. According to different decoration styles and design requirements, choosing the right pigment and aggregate can mix a rich variety of colors and unique textures. In modern minimalist style decoration, simple and bright colors and textures can be selected, such as white cement with white marble aggregate to create a simple and elegant atmosphere. In European classical style decoration, you can choose aggregates and pigments with rich colors and complex textures, such as colored marble aggregate and dark pigments, to show a luxurious and solemn style. Gloss is also an important factor affecting the decorative effect of terrazzo tiles. For some places with high gloss requirements, such as hotel lobbies, exhibition halls, etc., the gloss of terrazzo tiles can be improved by selecting appropriate raw materials and processing technology to make their surface smoother and brighter. Using epoxy resin as an adhesive material, matching with smooth aggregates, and fine grinding and polishing can effectively improve the gloss of terrazzo tiles and enhance their decorative effect.
Raw material costs play an important role in terrazzo tile production and have a direct impact on the economic benefits of enterprises. Excessive raw material costs will reduce the profit margins of enterprises and reduce the market competitiveness of products. Under the premise of ensuring the performance of terrazzo tiles, reasonable control of raw material costs is the key to the sustainable development of enterprises.
In the process of selecting raw materials, performance and cost factors need to be considered comprehensively. For some ordinary construction scenes that do not have particularly high performance requirements, such as floor decoration of ordinary houses, relatively low-cost raw materials can be selected. In terms of aggregate selection, the proportion of limestone, which is more affordable among natural rock aggregates, can be appropriately increased, and ordinary silicate cement can be used as an adhesive material. Although limestone is slightly inferior to some high-quality aggregates in hardness and wear resistance, it can meet basic use needs in the use environment of ordinary houses, and its cost is low, which can effectively reduce the production cost of terrazzo tiles. For some special construction scenes with high performance requirements, such as industrial plants and commercial complexes, when selecting raw materials, we should not only consider the cost, but should give priority to ensuring that the performance meets the requirements. In industrial plants, since the ground needs to withstand the heavy pressure and frequent friction of heavy machinery and equipment, it is necessary to select aggregates with high hardness and good wear resistance, such as quartz sand, ceramic particles, etc., as well as adhesive materials with strong bonding properties, such as epoxy resin. Although the cost of these raw materials is relatively high, they can ensure the long-term stable operation of terrazzo tiles in harsh operating environments, reduce subsequent maintenance and replacement costs, and have a higher cost-effectiveness in the long run.
Under the premise of ensuring performance, finding alternative materials is one of the effective ways to control costs. With the continuous advancement of science and technology, some new materials are constantly emerging. These materials can meet the requirements of terrazzo tiles in terms of performance and have advantages in cost. In terms of aggregates, the development of artificial aggregates provides a new option for cost control. Artificial quartz aggregates are gradually used in terrazzo tile production with their uniform texture, rich colors and good processing performance. Compared with natural quartz sand, artificial quartz aggregates can better control quality and cost during the production process, and their prices are relatively low through large-scale production. In some terrazzo tile production that has a large demand for quartz sand aggregates, the use of artificial quartz aggregates can effectively reduce costs while ensuring performance. In terms of adhesive materials, alternative products with similar performance but lower cost can also be found. Some new cement-based adhesives, by modifying cement and adding appropriate amounts of admixtures, can meet the requirements of terrazzo tiles in terms of bonding and other properties, while the cost is lower than that of traditional high-performance adhesive materials. In some construction scenarios where the performance requirements for adhesive materials are not particularly stringent, the use of these modified cement-based adhesives can reduce production costs.
Optimizing the ratio of raw materials is also an important means of controlling costs. Through scientific and reasonable experiments and analysis, the best ratio of raw materials is determined, and the use of precious raw materials is reduced while ensuring the performance of terrazzo tiles. On the basis of ensuring strength and other properties, the amount of cement is appropriately reduced, and the performance of cement paste and the bonding force between cement and aggregate are improved by adding appropriate amounts of mineral admixtures, such as silica fume and fly ash. Silica fume has a high degree of volcanic ash activity and can react secondary with calcium hydroxide produced during cement hydration to generate more hydrated calcium silicate gel, fill the pores of cement stone, and enhance the density of the structure, thereby ensuring the strength and durability of terrazzo tiles while reducing the amount of cement. Fly ash can also play a role in micro-aggregate filling, improve the working performance of cement paste, improve the impermeability and durability of tiles, and reduce the amount of cement and save costs. By optimizing the ratio of aggregate to adhesive material, costs can also be reduced while ensuring performance. Reasonably adjust the grading of aggregates so that a tight stacking structure can be formed between the aggregates, reducing the amount of adhesive material used while ensuring the strength and stability of the tile body.
In today's society, environmental awareness is increasing, and the environmental performance of building materials has become a focus of attention. As a widely used building decoration material, the environmentally friendly selection of raw materials for terrazzo tiles is of great significance to reducing environmental pollution and resource consumption during the production process.
In the selection of raw materials, environmentally friendly materials should be given priority. Environmentally friendly cement is an important choice, such as adopting new production processes and technologies to reduce energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions in the cement production process. Green cement developed by some companies reduces the use of non-renewable resources such as limestone by optimizing raw material formulas and production processes, while reducing carbon emissions in the production process. The use of this environmentally friendly cement in the production of terrazzo tiles can not only reduce the negative impact on the environment, but also meet the requirements of sustainable development. Recyclable and renewable aggregates are also an important direction for environmental protection choices. Recycled aggregates are aggregates obtained by crushing, screening and other processes of construction waste such as waste concrete and masonry. The use of recycled aggregates in the production of terrazzo tiles can realize the recycling of construction waste, reduce the mining of natural aggregates, and reduce resource consumption and ecological damage. The use of recycled aggregates can also reduce the amount of landfill and reduce environmental pollution. Some regions have established a complete construction waste recycling system to provide guarantees for the production and application of recycled aggregates. In the production of terrazzo tiles, the proportion of recycled aggregates has been continuously increasing, achieving good environmental protection effects.
Reducing environmental pollution and resource consumption during the production process can also be achieved by optimizing the production process. In the production process, use advanced production equipment and technology to improve the utilization rate of raw materials. Some new mixing equipment can achieve uniform mixing of raw materials and reduce the waste of raw materials caused by uneven mixing. The use of efficient molding technology, such as high-pressure molding technology, can improve the density and strength of terrazzo tiles and reduce the amount of raw materials. Reasonably plan the production process to reduce energy consumption during the production process. Use energy-saving drying equipment and lighting equipment to optimize the layout of the production workshop and reduce energy waste.
In the process of selecting and using raw materials, attention should also be paid to their impact on human health. Some traditional raw materials may contain harmful substances, such as heavy metals and other harmful substances in some pigments. During the use of terrazzo tiles, these harmful substances may be released and cause harm to human health. When choosing pigments, non-toxic, harmless and environmentally friendly pigments should be selected to ensure that terrazzo tiles will not have adverse effects on human health during use. When choosing adhesive materials, attention should also be paid to their volatile organic compound (VOC) content. Adhesive materials with low VOC content should be selected to reduce indoor air pollution and protect the health of users.
In order to determine the best mix ratio of terrazzo tile raw materials, the orthogonal experimental method was used. Orthogonal experiment is an efficient multi-factor experimental design method that can comprehensively examine the influence of various factors and their interactions on the experimental results with a small number of experiments.
The determination of experimental factors and levels is a key step in experimental design. After preliminary research and analysis, three main factors were selected: aggregate type (A), adhesive type (B) and mass ratio of aggregate to adhesive (C). Each factor was set at three levels, as follows: the three levels of aggregate type (A) were quartz sand (A1), ceramic particles (A2), and marble (A3); the three levels of adhesive type (B) were ordinary Portland cement (B1), white cement (B2), and epoxy resin (B3); the three levels of mass ratio of aggregate to adhesive (C) were 6:4 (C1), 7:3 (C2), and 8:2 (C3).
According to the selected factors and levels, the L9 (3^4) orthogonal table is selected for experimental design. The orthogonal table has 9 rows and 4 columns, where 3 means each factor has 3 levels, and 4 means that a maximum of 4 factors can be arranged. In this experiment, the three factors are arranged in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd columns of the orthogonal table, and the 4th column is used as a blank column to estimate the experimental error. The experimental plan and results are shown in Table 1:
|
Experiment No. |
A |
B |
C |
Compressive strength(MPa) |
Flexural strength(MPa) |
Wear resistance (wear loss g/cm²) |
|
1 |
A1 |
B1 |
C1 |
50.2 |
8.2 |
0.25 |
|
2 |
A1 |
B2 |
C2 |
55.6 |
9.0 |
0.22 |
|
3 |
A1 |
B3 |
C3 |
65.8 |
10.5 |
0.18 |
|
4 |
A2 |
B1 |
C2 |
60.5 |
9.5 |
0.20 |
|
5 |
A2 |
B2 |
C3 |
68.4 |
11.0 |
0.16 |
|
6 |
A2 |
B3 |
C1 |
75.6 |
12.5 |
0.14 |
|
7 |
A3 |
B1 |
C3 |
45.3 |
7.8 |
0.30 |
|
8 |
A3 |
B2 |
C1 |
48.9 |
8.5 |
0.28 |
|
9 |
A3 |
B3 |
C2 |
52.7 |
9.2 |
0.24 |
During the implementation of the experiment, the raw materials were weighed, mixed, molded and cured strictly in accordance with the experimental plan. An electronic balance was used to accurately weigh various raw materials to ensure that the weighing error was within the allowable range. Aggregates, adhesive materials and other additives were fully mixed using a forced mixer, and the mixing time was controlled within 10-15 minutes to ensure the uniformity of the mixture. The mixed mixture was poured into the mold and vibrated on a vibration table for 2-3 minutes to make the mixture fully dense in the mold. The molded specimens were cured for 28 days under standard curing conditions, with a curing temperature of 20±2℃ and a relative humidity of more than 95%. After the curing period, the compressive strength, flexural strength and wear resistance of the specimens were tested in accordance with relevant standards and specifications. The compressive strength test uses a universal material testing machine with a loading rate of 0.5 - 1.0MPa/s; the flexural strength test uses a flexural testing machine with a loading rate of 0.05 - 0.10MPa/s; the wear resistance test uses a wear resistance testing machine, and the test is carried out according to the specified friction times and pressure, and the wear amount of the specimen is recorded.
The orthogonal experimental results were analyzed in depth to reveal the relationship between the raw material mix ratio and the performance of terrazzo tiles and to determine the optimal mix ratio scheme.
By calculating the average and range of indicators at different levels of each factor, the influence of each factor on the performance of terrazzo tiles is analyzed. Taking compressive strength as an example, the calculation results are shown in Table 2:
|
factor |
Level 1 Mean |
Level 2 Mean |
Level 3 Mean |
Very bad |
|
A |
57.2 |
68.2 |
49.0 |
19.2 |
|
B |
52.0 |
57.6 |
65.4 |
13.4 |
|
C |
58.2 |
56.3 |
59.9 |
3.6 |
As can be seen from Table 2 , the range of aggregate type (A) is the largest, which is 19.2, indicating that the type of aggregate has the most significant effect on the compressive strength of terrazzo tiles. The second is the type of adhesive material (B), with a range of 13.4, which also has a great influence on the compressive strength. The range of the mass ratio of aggregate to adhesive material (C) is relatively small, at 3.6, and its effect on compressive strength is relatively small. Further analysis of the mean values of each factor at different levels showed that when the aggregate type was ceramic particles (A2), the mean compressive strength was the highest, reaching 68.2 MPa; when the adhesive material type was epoxy resin (B3), the mean compressive strength was the highest, at 65.4 MPa; when the mass ratio of aggregate to adhesive was 8:2 (C3), the mean compressive strength was the highest, at 59.9 MPa.
Similar analyses were performed for flexural strength and wear resistance. The analysis results of flexural strength show that the type of aggregate (A) and the type of adhesive material (B) have a significant impact on it, while the mass ratio of aggregate to adhesive material (C) has a relatively small effect. In terms of flexural strength, when the aggregate type is ceramic particles (A2) and the adhesive material type is epoxy resin (B3), the flexural strength is higher. The analysis results of wear resistance show that the type of aggregate (A) has the most significant effect on it, followed by the type of adhesive material (B), and the mass ratio of aggregate to adhesive material (C) has a relatively small effect. In terms of wear resistance, when the aggregate type is ceramic particles (A2) and the adhesive material type is epoxy resin (B3), the wear loss is lower and the wear resistance is better.
Taking into account the performance indicators such as compressive strength, flexural strength and wear resistance, the optimized mix ratio is determined to be A2B3C3, that is, the aggregate type is ceramic particles, the adhesive material type is epoxy resin, and the mass ratio of aggregate to adhesive material is 8:2. Under this mix ratio, the performance of terrazzo tiles is relatively excellent, with a compressive strength of 75.6MPa, a flexural strength of 12.5MPa, and a wear loss of only 0.14g/cm².
By analyzing the experimental results, it can also be found that there may be interactions between different factors. In order to further study the impact of the interaction between factors on the performance of terrazzo tiles, in-depth analysis can be carried out using methods such as variance analysis. Variance analysis can more accurately evaluate the degree of influence of each factor and its interaction on the experimental results, and provide a more scientific basis for the optimization of the raw material mix ratio. In actual production, it is also necessary to consider factors such as cost and production process, and comprehensively evaluate and adjust the optimized mix ratio scheme to achieve a balance between performance and cost and meet market demand.
A large shopping mall covers an area of [X] square meters. As a commercial landmark in the city, it has a huge flow of people inside, with an average daily flow of [X] people. Terrazzo tiles are used for the decoration of the floor, walls and some public areas of the mall to meet its strict requirements for wear resistance, decorativeness and durability.
In terms of aggregate selection, the mall mainly uses quartz sand and ceramic particles. Quartz sand, with its high hardness and good wear resistance, effectively improves the surface hardness of terrazzo tiles, enabling them to withstand the frequent trampling of a large number of people and the friction of various cargo transportation vehicles. In the main passages and business areas of the mall, terrazzo tiles containing quartz sand aggregates are used. After long-term use, the surface wear is extremely low and still maintains good flatness and smoothness. Ceramic particles add a unique texture and decorative effect to terrazzo tiles. The high hardness and rich colors of ceramic particles make terrazzo tiles show a more beautiful appearance while maintaining wear resistance. In some special areas of the mall, such as boutiques and restaurants, terrazzo tiles containing ceramic particles are used. Through the combination of ceramic particles of different colors and shapes, a unique decorative style is created to attract customers' attention.
As for adhesive materials, the mall chose epoxy resin. Epoxy resin has excellent bonding properties and can firmly bond aggregates together to form a stable structure, ensuring that terrazzo tiles are not prone to cracks and falling off during long-term use. Its good chemical corrosion resistance also enables terrazzo tiles to resist the erosion of various cleaning products and chemicals in the mall, maintaining the integrity and stable performance of the tiles. In the bathrooms, kitchens and other areas of the mall, various cleaning products are often used. Terrazzo tiles containing epoxy resin can still maintain good condition in these environments and are not easily corroded or damaged.
The use of auxiliary materials also enhances the performance and decorative effect of terrazzo tiles. In terms of mineral admixtures, an appropriate amount of silica fume is added, and the silica fume undergoes a secondary reaction with cement to generate more hydrated calcium silicate gel, which fills the pores of the cement stone, making the structure of the terrazzo tile denser and significantly improving its strength. In some areas with high load-bearing requirements, such as underground parking lots in shopping malls, terrazzo tiles containing silica fume are used. They can withstand the heavy pressure of large vehicles and are not prone to cracking and deformation.
Among chemical admixtures, water reducing agent is used to improve the working properties of cement paste. The water reducer increases the electrostatic repulsion between cement particles, making them fully dispersed. Without increasing the amount of water used, it improves the fluidity of the cement slurry, facilitates the mixing, transportation and pouring of terrazzo tiles, and improves production efficiency and construction quality.
In terms of the choice of pigments, the mall selected a variety of light-resistant and alkali-resistant mineral pigments based on the overall decoration style and brand positioning, and formulated unique colors and textures. Warm-toned pigments create a warm and comfortable shopping atmosphere, which complements the lighting and merchandise display in the mall. In the rest area and children's play area of the mall, soft warm-toned terrazzo tiles are used to provide customers with a relaxing and pleasant space. In some high-end brand areas, cool-toned pigments are used, matched with simple textures, showing a fashionable and high-end style, which is consistent with the brand image.
Through the analysis of the application case of terrazzo tiles in this large shopping mall, it can be seen that the reasonable selection of raw materials can effectively meet the requirements of large commercial buildings for terrazzo tiles in terms of wear resistance, decorativeness, etc. In the future production and application of terrazzo tiles, the characteristics and optimized combination of raw materials should be further studied to better meet the needs of different building scenes.
As an important hub of urban transportation, a certain subway station has an average daily passenger flow of [X] people, and has extremely high requirements for the durability, anti-slip and safety of floor decoration materials. After comprehensive consideration, the subway station selected terrazzo tiles as the floor decoration material to ensure performance under high-intensity use.
In terms of aggregate selection, the subway station uses quartz sand and ceramic particles. The high hardness and wear resistance of quartz sand enable it to effectively resist the trampling of a large number of passengers and the dragging of luggage. During long-term use, the ground still maintains a good flatness, reducing the safety hazards caused by wear. Ceramic particles not only further improve the hardness and wear resistance of terrazzo tiles, but also add a unique decorative effect to the ground. By matching ceramic particles of different colors and shapes, a modern and artistic ground pattern is created, which improves the overall aesthetics of the subway station.
As for adhesive materials, the subway station selected epoxy resin. Epoxy resin has excellent bonding properties and can firmly bond aggregates together to form a stable structure, effectively preventing terrazzo tiles from cracking and falling off under long-term heavy pressure. Its good flexibility also enables the tile body to buffer energy when impacted, reducing the risk of cracking and ensuring the safety of passengers.
In order to meet the strict requirements of subway stations for anti-slip properties, careful design was carried out in the selection of raw materials and production processes. A certain proportion of rough particles was added to the aggregate, which formed tiny protrusions on the surface of the terrazzo tiles, increasing the friction between the ground and the soles, effectively improving the anti-slip performance. During the production process, the surface of the terrazzo tiles was subjected to special anti-slip treatment, such as the use of special grinding processes to form a subtle texture on the surface, further enhancing the anti-slip effect.
The use of mineral admixtures and chemical admixtures also provides strong support for the performance improvement of terrazzo tiles. The addition of silica fume enhances the structural density of cement stone and improves the strength and durability of terrazzo tiles. The use of water reducers improves the working performance of cement paste and improves production efficiency and construction quality.
Through the analysis of the application case of terrazzo tiles in this subway station, it can be seen that the reasonable selection of raw materials can effectively meet the requirements of public facilities for durability, anti-slip properties, etc. In the future construction of public facilities, the research and application of terrazzo tile raw materials should be further strengthened, and the selection and proportion of raw materials should be continuously optimized to improve the performance of terrazzo tiles and provide people with a safer and more comfortable public environment.
A high-end residential community widely uses terrazzo tiles in floor and wall decoration to create a high-quality living environment. The architectural style of the community combines modern simplicity with natural elements, striving to provide residents with a comfortable, beautiful and unique living space.
In terms of aggregate selection, the community uses quartz sand and a small amount of colored marble particles. The high hardness and good wear resistance of quartz sand can meet the wear requirements of the floor in daily residential use, ensuring that the terrazzo tiles still maintain good flatness and smoothness after long-term use. The colored marble particles add natural and unique textures and colors to the terrazzo tiles, making each tile a unique decorative element. In the living room and bedroom areas, the clever combination of marble particles of different colors and textures creates a warm and elegant atmosphere, which is consistent with the high-end positioning of the community.
As for adhesive materials, white cement and a small amount of organic polymer adhesive are used. White cement has a high whiteness, which can provide a white base color for terrazzo tiles, better show the color and texture of the aggregate, and improve the aesthetics of the tile. The addition of organic polymer adhesive enhances the bonding performance and flexibility of the adhesive material, ensures a firm bond between the aggregate and the adhesive material, and improves the crack resistance of terrazzo tiles. In humid areas such as bathrooms and kitchens, this combination of adhesive materials can effectively prevent cracks and falling off of the tile body due to humidity changes, ensuring safety and durability.
The use of auxiliary materials also adds a lot to the application of terrazzo tiles in residential buildings. In terms of mineral admixtures, an appropriate amount of fly ash is added. The micro-aggregate filling effect of fly ash makes the cement paste more compact, improves the microstructure of terrazzo tiles, and improves its impermeability and durability. In areas that are easily exposed to moisture, such as bathrooms and balconies, the use of terrazzo tiles containing fly ash can effectively resist moisture erosion and extend the service life of the tiles.
Among chemical admixtures, retarders are used to control the hydration reaction rate of cement. In the process of residential decoration, the construction time is relatively flexible, but it is necessary to ensure that the cement paste maintains good working performance for a long time to facilitate operations such as mixing, transportation and pouring. The use of retarders effectively prolongs the setting time of cement paste, ensuring the smooth progress of construction, and also provides more time for the surface treatment and modification of terrazzo tiles, ensuring the flatness and aesthetics of the tile surface.
In terms of the choice of pigments, a variety of light-resistant and alkali-resistant mineral pigments were selected according to the overall decoration style of the house and the personalized needs of the residents, and soft and warm tones were mixed. In the bedroom area, beige and light pink pigments were used to create a warm and comfortable sleeping environment; in the living room and dining room area, light gray and light yellow pigments were used, with simple textures, showing a simple and fashionable style.
Through the analysis of the application case of terrazzo tiles in this high-end residential area, it can be seen that in residential buildings, the reasonable selection of raw materials can effectively meet the needs of aesthetics and comfort. In future residential decoration, we should further explore the optimal combination of terrazzo tile raw materials, combine different design styles and living needs, and create a more personalized and high-quality living environment for residents.
