Multi-layered PVC floor covering
Applicant(s): PROVIRON HOLDING NV, GERFLOR SAS
Inventor(s): Mathilda Lesacher, Isabelle Vial, Arnaud Verraes, Jelle Cornelus, José Vanheule
Patent number: WO2026087762A1
Publication date: 2026-04-30
Field: Multi-layered PVC floor covering
Field of invention
This invention relates to multi-layer PVC-based wall and floor coverings, focusing on improved material formulations and manufacturing methods to enhance performance, durability and sustainability.
Problem
Multi-layer PVC floor coverings rely on plasticizers to ensure flexibility and performance. However, conventional petroleum-based plasticizers can migrate between layers or to the surface over time. This migration leads to a loss of flexibility, surface defects and reduced durability, ultimately affecting the performance and lifetime of the flooring system. In addition, current solutions rely heavily on fossil-based materials, contributing to a higher carbon footprint and limiting the recyclability of PVC products, especially when exposed to repeated thermal and mechanical stresses during use or recycling.
Solution
This invention introduces a bio-based plasticizer derived from vegetable oil, integrated within at least one layer of a multi-layer PVC floor covering. This innovative formulation significantly reduces plasticizer migration while maintaining excellent thermal stability and mechanical performance, even after multiple ageing cycles. By replacing part of the fossil-based content with renewable resources, the solution lowers the environmental impact while preserving processing efficiency. The improved compatibility and stability of the bio-based plasticizer also support better durability and enhanced recyclability of PVC flooring systems.
Advantages
- Reduces the use of non-renewable, petroleum-based plasticizers, lowering the overall carbon footprint
- Improves thermal stability and mechanical performance of PVC floor coverings, even after repeated ageing cycles
- Limits plasticizer migration between layers, enhancing durability and long-term performance
- Supports improved recyclability of PVC materials
- Enables lower processing temperatures thanks to the optimized gelling point of the bio-based plasticizer mix
