Every year, Coverings showcases the latest advances in
ceramic technology, and this year was no exception during the 2009 edition held
in Chicago. From “bionic” tiles that respond to their environment to
self-cleaning and anti-microbial tiles, Coverings 2009 offered a glimpse into
the future of tile technology. High points of the show included:
The Tile Council of North America
(TCNA) announced it recently completed testing on a new titanium-based,
micro-coating technology developed by Stone Peak Ceramics, which showed a 70%
reduction in NOx emissions, as well as a 67-94% reduction in E Coli bacteria.
“Green” was the hot topic, as many
manufacturers stressed the environmental benefits of using ceramic tile, such
as LEED points and improved indoor air quality. Manufacturers also placed more
emphasis on the greenness of their production process, for example,
conspicuously labeling the products that feature a high percentage of recycled
content.
Design trends were more subdued this
year. Simple, organic designs that mimic natural materials proved to be popular
with attendees.
Realistic stone designs incorporating new inkjet printing
technology proved popular with attendees.
Coverings 2009 not only served as a
platform for unveiling new designs, equipment or elements used in tile, but
also served as the focal point for honoring 17 tile and stone projects in the
annual Spectrum and Prism Awards. The following projects not only grabbed the
attention of the judging panel, but also those of Coverings’ attendees.
Additional Coverings stories can be
viewed on
www.coveringsinsider.com.
Coverings 2010 is set for April
27-30 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, FL. For more
information, visit www.coverings.com.
