With sustainability and environment protection at the core of contemporary tile manufacturing, materials technologists like Aled Roberts are seeking ways to
reduce the carbon footprint of traditional tile producing methods.
New formulations requiring lower firing temperatures are welcomed, but manufacturers and consumers are understandably reluctant to compromise on product quality.
Aled Robert’s start up, Dekiln, has come up with a formulation that may tick all the boxes. The clue is in the name: de-kiln. In other words, a tile mix that has all the qualities needed but does not require long firing processes at skyrocket temperatures. Dekiln’s Eralith tiles reduce the typical carbon footprint of traditional methods by a remarkable 94%.
The new formula is made up of 95% percent recycled waste mineral powders which are mixed with plant-derived binders. The low-energy curing process used on the formed tiles replaces traditional methods, hence the huge drop in carbon emissions. The process, known as cold sintering, uses pressure and a small, transient liquid stage, requiring dramatically lower temperatures than traditional firing.
Roberts’ business has been supported by a £3 million grant from the Royal Academy of Engineering’s Green Future Fellowship. Johnson Tiles, an established manufacturer based in Stoke-on-Trent, are now working with Roberts to commercialize the production of Eralith, and move his innovative process out of the lab and onto the marketplace.
At Digital Ceramic Custom Tiles, we produce high-quality, ceramic and porcelain tiles for a wide range of applications. If you are a designer, get in touch with us and let’s talk about how quality tiling could become a key feature of your latest project.