Public and government buildings with Krion

Impact resistance of KrionÂ® LUX: comparison with other materials

Impact resistance is an essential characteristic for materials used on surfaces in high-traffic areas. When selecting between different options for projects, such as hotels or retail, it is crucial to choose those that offer greater resistance to impact damage. What will you learn in this... article? What determines a material's impact resistance How impact resistance is measured Which materials are usually more resistant to impact What determines a material's impact resistance? A material's impact resistance is influenced by a number of factors that determine how it will react when a load or blow is applied to it. These include the internal composition of the material, its properties, and other factors. Below, we detail the main elements that influence this characteristic. Internal composition and structure The internal composition of a material is a fundamental factor that determines its ability to resist external forces. Those with a homogeneous structure efficiently distribute the energy generated by impacts, thus reducing the risk of fractures or significant damage. On the other hand, those with a porous structure or internal cavities tend to be more vulnerable, as the energy is not dispersed evenly, increasing the possibility of breakage or deformation. Toughness vs. hardness: different concepts Although they are related terms, the hardness and toughness of a material are two distinct properties. Hardness refers to a material's ability to resist abrasion or scratching, while toughness refers to the material's ability to absorb energy without breaking. A material can be hard, such as quartz, but if it does not have sufficient toughness, it can easily fracture under a strong impact. Toughness is essential to ensure that a material does not break under stress. Other external conditions: temperature, support, geometry, thickness External conditions can also influence a material's impact resistance. The temperature to which a material is exposed can affect its flexibility or rigidity. In addition, the shape of the material, its thickness, and the type of support on which it rests play an important role in its ability to withstand impact. A thin or poorly supported material may be more prone to fracture when struck. How is impact resistance measured? The impact resistance of materials is evaluated using different tests that measure the amount of energy a material can absorb without breaking or suffering permanent deformation. Below, we describe the most common methods for measuring it. Pendulum test: Charpy test / Izod test The Charpy test and the Izod test are standard tests for measuring the toughness of materials against impact. Both tests measure the amount of energy absorbed during the fracture of a material test piece, providing an assessment of its ability to resist impact damage. The key difference between the two lies in the shape of the test piece and the type of support: Charpy test: In this test, the test piece has a notch in the center (usually V-shaped) and is supported horizontally. A pendulum is released from a specific height and strikes the test piece. The energy absorbed is measured from the angle of displacement of the pendulum after impact. This method is suitable for materials that experience a type of fracture that can be easily measured, such as metals. Izod test: In contrast, in the Izod test, the test piece is vertical and supported at a single point at its base. The pendulum is also dropped from a specific height and strikes the material. The absorbed energy is calculated in the same way, but the test design allows the material's response to more localized impacts to be studied. Free fall/ball impact test The free fall or ball impact test is a method used to evaluate resistance to impact from falling objects or concentrated blows. In this test, a metal sphere is dropped onto the surface of a material from a specific height, according to the standard. In some cases, heavier spheres or greater heights are used to increase the severity of the test. Compression and flexural testing Although not specifically designed to measure impact resistance directly, compression and flexural tests allow the evaluation of how a material reacts to concentrated or distributed loads, which are common conditions in industrial and commercial environments. These tests focus on a material's ability to resist deformation or failure when a significant external load is applied. Compression test: A test piece of the material is placed between two plates and subjected to an axial load. The load is gradually increased until the material experiences significant plastic deformation or failure. Bending test: Here, a test piece of the material is placed on two support points, and a load is applied to the center of the test piece. As the load increases, the material bends until it reaches a point of breakage or irreversible deformation. Which materials are typically most impact resistant? When selecting materials for applications exposed to constant impacts or shocks, such as countertops or furniture, impact resistance is a key factor. The most common materials used in these applications include natural stone, quartz surfaces, wood, and other composite materials. Below, we will analyze how these materials behave in terms of impact resistance and how they perform in specific tests. Krion® LUX as the most impact-resistant material In the impact resistance test, 1000-gram metal spheres were used, far exceeding the 325 grams required by regulations, and were dropped from a height of two meters, also above the minimum requirement of 1.3 meters. In this test, various solid surfaces were evaluated, including marble, granite, engineered quartz, and wood. The result was clear: none of the conventional solid surfaces passed the test without breaking. Only Krion® LUX remained intact, without suffering any visible damage. This result confirms that, under the same test conditions, Krion® LUX is the surface with the highest impact resistance, surpassing other materials commonly used in high-traffic and heavy-use environments. -> Learn more about Krion® LUX Frequently asked questions (FAQs) Can impact damage to Krion® LUX be repaired? Yes, one of the main advantages of Krion® LUX is its ability to regenerate. If the material suffers superficial scratches due to impact, these can be easily repaired. Simply polish the surface evenly to restore its original appearance. How does the impact resistance of Krion® LUX affect its overall durability? Krion®'s high impact resistance contributes significantly to its overall durability. By being able to absorb impacts without suffering serious damage, Krion® LUX maintains its integrity and aesthetics over time. Its ability to regenerate also ensures that any surface damage can be quickly repaired, further increasing its service life and making it an ideal choice for applications that require high-performance, low-maintenance materials. Why is Krion® LUX more impact resistant than other materials? Krion® LUX's impact resistance is due to its composition, which mainly includes alumina trihydrate (ATH), a mineral compound known for its high durability. This material forms a homogeneous and dense structure, which allows the energy generated by an impact to be distributed efficiently, reducing the risk of fractures or damage. In addition, the resin used in its manufacture acts as a binder, providing flexibility and toughness to the material, which improves its ability to absorb impacts without breaking.

Krion as a protagonist in the design of public spaces in architecture

The design of public spaces in architecture seeks not only aesthetics, but also to improve the quality of urban life in places with a large number of users. Maximum hygiene, easy cleaning and resistance are some of the key properties of materials suitable for continuous... use. In this sense, Krion offers innovative, sustainable and versatile solutions that transform architectural projects, adapting to the current demands of public spaces. What will you discover in this article? We explore how the architectural design of public spaces influences urban coexistence and the creation of more inclusive environments. We detail the technical properties that make Krion® an ideal solution for high-traffic spaces: regenerability, hygiene, thermoformability, and resistance to chemical agents. We analyze the main trends in public space architecture and how Krion® aligns with them to facilitate more accessible, sustainable, and multifunctional designs. What is the design of public spaces in architecture and why is it important? The design of public spaces in architecture refers to the planning and construction of accessible and functional urban areas, such as government buildings, bridges, squares, parks or transport stations. These spaces are meant to be inclusive and encourage social interaction. Public architecture should have a communal value, as it becomes the meeting point for people and reflects the history and culture of a city in which it is located. Furthermore, the importance of these spaces lies in their ability to respond to social, economic and environmental needs. Architects must consider factors such as safety, accessibility and sustainability in order to create environments that last over time and improve coexistence. In this context, the materials selected play a crucial role in ensuring the durability and functionality of these areas. Principles of public design architecture The architecture of public spaces is based on a series of principles that define its social function, urban impact, and cultural legacy. These principles guide the planning, design, and execution of projects that must balance aesthetics, functionality, and civic responsibility. Below, we review the essential pillars that underpin contemporary public design. Collective vocation and social function Public space is at the service of the community. Its design should facilitate interaction, promote a sense of belonging, and respond to the social dynamics of each environment. It is not just about “building beautifully,” but about creating places where people want to be, live, and participate. Urban connectivity and continuity Good public design establishes fluid connections between different parts of the city. It integrates the built environment with the landscape, encourages pedestrian and bicycle mobility, and connects neighborhoods, cultures, and generations. Spatial continuity is key to weaving cities together and facilitating everyday travel. Legibility and orientation Public spaces must be understandable and navigable. This involves designing with spatial logic, prioritizing routes, incorporating clear signage, and ensuring that every user can understand and use the space without difficulty. Visual and functional orientation is a key criterion in the urban experience. Identity and memory of place Each project must engage with the cultural and architectural context in which it is located. Public architecture is not neutral: it communicates values, reflects collective identities, and can become an urban symbol. Designing with historical and cultural awareness brings a sense of place and continuity with the memory of the territory. Adaptability and resilience Public space must be capable of transforming itself and responding to new uses, flows, or situations (climatic, social, health, etc.). Designing with urban resilience principles in mind means anticipating future scenarios, facilitating maintenance, and allowing spaces to evolve without losing their essence. How Krion® contributes to the design of durable public spaces Krion® is a material that stands out for its strength, versatility and sustainability, making it a perfect choice for architectural projects in public spaces. Specifically, it has the following technical properties that make it ideal for the creation of durable and adaptable urban environments. High resistance: Public spaces are subject to continuous use and therefore require materials that withstand daily wear and tear and adverse environmental conditions. Krion® is resistant to impacts, chemical agents and UV rays, guaranteeing a long service life. In addition, its surface can be regenerated without altering its properties, restoring its original appearance, which is essential in high-traffic environments. Sustainability: Our commitment to the environment is evident in solutions such as Recycled Content Krion® K-Life1100, which contains a minimum of 5% post-consumer recycled material in its composition. This material is a conscious choice for innovative projects with a sustainable soul. In fact, thanks to the commitment to R&D&I, it has been possible to maintain the quality of the material without compromising its performance. It is therefore fully aligned with current trends of environmental responsibility in architectural design. Versatility: Krion®'s ability to be moulded into a variety of shapes allows architects to create continuous surfaces with no visible joints, offering a clean, modern aesthetic. Its ability to thermoform makes it especially useful for projects that require organic, custom shapes. In addition, it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, maximising its use in a wide variety of urban projects. Durability: The longevity of materials used in public architecture is essential to reduce maintenance costs and ensure user satisfaction. Krion® ensures that public spaces remain functional and aesthetically pleasing for many years to come. Current trends in the architecture of public spaces The design of public spaces in architecture has evolved to adapt to current social and environmental needs. Among the most prominent trends are: Inclusive and accessible public spaces Public architecture must be accessible to all citizens, regardless of their physical abilities. Krion®, with its physical properties, is an excellent choice for designing inclusive spaces that promote the safety and comfort of users. Sustainability and circular economy More and more architects are prioritising sustainable construction, using materials that contribute to it. Krion® ®, with its commitment to the environment, fulfils this task® to perfection. Multifunctional and adaptable spaces Urban environments require flexibility to adapt to the needs of cities. Materials such as Krion® allow the creation of spaces adapted to different uses, responding to the needs of citizens. Architectural projects in public spaces by Krion Photography: Palladium Photodesign Porcelanosa Group Project: UAE Pavilion, (Dubai, United Arab Emirates) Architecture: Santiago Calatrava Solutions from Porcelanosa Grupo and Krion. Photo: Ferrante Ferranti - CNSMDP Porcelanosa Group Project: Tour D'Orgue, (Paris, France) Client: Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et danse de Paris Architecture: Christian de Portzamparc Architecte Solutions from Porcelanosa Grupo and Krion. Photography: Joao Morgado and Attilio Fiumarella Porcelanosa Group Project: HALO, (Vigo, Spain) Architecture: AM2 Architects & Arenas & Associates Solutions from Porcelanosa Grupo, Butech and Krion. Porcelanosa Group Project: Colegio Superior de Gastronomía, (CMDX, Mexico) Architecture: Pablo Ortega Interior design: Arturo Anaya and Pablo Ortega Solutions from Porcelanosa Grupo, Xtone and Krion. Conclusion The design of public spaces in architecture plays a key role in the development of more inclusive and sustainable cities. Krion®, with its commitment to innovation and sustainability, is positioned as a key option for architects looking for versatile, resistant and environmentally friendly materials. Its ability to adapt to various applications in urban environments, together with its durability and advanced technology, make it an indispensable material for public architecture projects.

Furniture created with KRIONÂ® in the new Tribunal de Grande Instance building in Paris

The Tribunal de Grande Instancein Paris has moved its installations to the Batignolles neighbourhood, in the 17th arrondissement of the French capital, where KRION® has been used to create much of the furniture in these new headquarters. Established in the Middle Ages in l’Île de... Cité, at the heart of Paris, the Tribunal de Grande Instance (TGI) has moved to its new address, establishing itself in a spectacular 160 metre tall building created by the Renzo Piano Building Workshop (RPBW) international architecture studio, a 38 floor tower with three different levels, one on top of the other. KRION® has formed part of this project, a material used to create and design much of the furniture inside. Thanks to its multiple properties and applications, several rooms have benefitted from this solid surface; we find the compact mineral from PORCELANOSA Group transformed into the chairs and benches located in the entrance and lower lobby (considered high transit area), on the countertops of the various bathrooms, and in the covering of tables which will be used by lawyers, judges and judicial personnel. By using the pure white colour of KRION® to create this furniture, as associate architect Stefano Marrano says, “the aim was to associate the idea of justice with purity”. This new building will contain both the hearing rooms and the offices of the judicial institution. With the idea of combining both public functions and private offices, the project by Renzo Piano Building Workshop, with its size and status, intends to establish itself as a point of renovation and development for the whole Clichy Batignolles area in Paris. Source: IN INTERIORS September 2018 – Emmanuelle Graffin KRION PORCELANOSA SOLID SURFACE

KRION in the Haus der Technik orientation centre, Stadtwerke Bielefeld, Germany

Located at the heart of the German city of Bielefeld, the client service centre is found, which has offered a multitude of varied and essential functions since 1929, such as energy information and contracting, drinking water, telecommunications, energy recovery from waste, free time, event tickets,... and tickets for swimming pools and saunas, etc. Its main function has been the sale of tram, metro and bus tickets, and it is a busy space which since 2017 has had a new image thanks to the design by InnenArchitektur & Design Sebastian Büscher, in which we can find KRION as one of the materials selected for the project. The new Haus der Technik space in Stadtwerke Bielefeld is divided into two atmospheres: the area for presentation of new projects, and the consultation area in which the Solid Surface from PORCELANOSA Group, KRION, is best represented. Both Sebastian Büscher, as the KRION transformation company, and Möbelwerkstaff Richard Mangel have been able, with the colours 1100 Snow White and backlightable 4102 Extreme Light, to create an elegant, functional and high quality workspace where the day to day work of employees and all those who require their services has been made pleasant. The combination of the pure white colour of KRION, the backlightable lines and lit low relief as a sign are perfectly combined with the natural wood with which they share the space, with KRION transformed into a 5 metre counter, a conference table and seven desks. Photographs: Lope Matias KRION PORCELANOSA Solid Surface

KRION at the nerve centre of the Technical University of Munich (TUM): its library

It is difficult to explain the size of the library of one of the most important universities in Europe, the Technical University of Munich “Technische Universität München (TUM)”. In this case, the following figures are its best introduction: over 2 million printed and... electronic articles, 400,000 book loans and over 10 million downloads of text, along with 1.83 million visitors each year make this library a vital support for students, scientists, researchers and teachers. In one of the rooms of the library, we find the Solid Surface from PORCELANOSA Group, KRION, transformed into an access ramp for disabled people on each diametrically opposed side of the room, including L shaped benches incorporating power outlets, all created with KRION colour 0102 Clear Nature belonging to the NATURE series, containing a minimum of 20% recycled material. Completing the impressive design of the room is another bench made from KRION between both structures, giving the space a symmetrical layout, providing harmony and flexibility to this transitional area. The project was designed and created by Staatlichen Bauamt München 2, one of the state construction companies whose work ranges from administrative buildings to the construction of laboratories, hospitals, research spaces, high schools, and university buildings with auditoriums, etc. TheKRION solid surface was transformed for the library by theSchreinerei Josef Lagler workshop. Project: Universitätsbibliothek der Technischen Universität München Planner: Staatlichen Bauamt München 2 Transformer: Schreinerei Josef Lagler Schreinerei Josef Schneider Images: Lope Matias KRION PORCELANOSA SOLID SURFACE

Public and Government Spaces with Solid Surface

KRION® for public-sector and government projects