EN 16094:2021
(Main)Laminate floor coverings - Test method for the determination of micro-scratch resistance
Laminate floor coverings - Test method for the determination of micro-scratch resistance
This document specifies a test method for the micro-scratch resistance with two procedures (A and B) and a test method for polishing resistance (procedure C) which can be used for all types of laminate floor coverings. The resistance to polishing is related to mat surfaces.
Laminatböden - Prüfverfahren zur Bestimmung der Mikrokratzbeständigkeit
Dieses Dokument legt ein Prüfverfahren für die Mikrokratzbeständigkeit mit zwei Verfahren (A und B) und ein Prüfverfahren zur Beständigkeit gegen Aufpolieren (Verfahren C) fest, das für alle Arten von Laminatböden angewendet werden kann. Die Beständigkeit gegen Aufpolieren bezieht sich auf matte Oberflächen.
Revêtements de sol stratifiés - Méthode d'essai pour la détermination de la résistance aux micro-rayures
Le présent document spécifie une méthode d'essai de résistance aux micro-rayures comportant deux modes opératoires (A et B), ainsi qu'une méthode d'essai de résistance au polissage (mode opératoire C) ; ces méthodes peuvent être utilisées pour tous les types de revêtements de sol stratifiés. La résistance au polissage concerne les surfaces mates.
Laminatne talne obloge - Preskusna metoda za ugotavljanje odpornosti proti mikropraskam
General Information
Relations
Overview
EN 16094:2021 is a CEN European standard that specifies laboratory test methods to determine micro-scratch resistance and polishing resistance of laminate floor coverings. It supersedes EN 16094:2012 and adds a new procedure for polishing (procedure C) and a reference HPL calibration plate. The standard is applicable to all types of laminate flooring and is intended for consistent, repeatable assessment of surface durability, especially for decor layers and matt finishes.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Test scope: Two procedures (A and B) for micro-scratch resistance and one procedure (C) for polishing resistance (aimed at matt surfaces).
- Apparatus:
- Martindale tester configured to trace a Lissajous figure (as per EN ISO 12947-1 / EN ISO 12945-2 adaptations).
- Holder for scrub material with two load versions (approx. 413 ± 2 g ≈ 4 N and 612 ± 2 g ≈ 6 N).
- Reflectometer for gloss measurement (EN ISO 2813 geometry: 60°; 20° used additionally for high‑gloss surfaces).
- Diffuse light source providing ~1 200 ± 400 lx and a positioning device for repeatable gloss readings.
- Materials:
- Nylon web scrub pads embedded with alumina abrasive (very fine, medium fine, ultra‑fine; 89 ± 1 mm diameter). Commercial examples (for guidance only) are listed in the standard.
- Reference black high-gloss HPL plate with corundum surface for calibration of scrub batches.
- Specimen preparation and conditioning:
- Typical specimen size 150 × 150 mm; conditioning at (23 ± 2) °C and (50 ± 5) % RH for at least one week.
- Test principle and outputs:
- Sample is rubbed under controlled load and motion; surface changes evaluated by gloss measurement (before/after) and visual assessment.
- Gloss change calculated as percentage (or absolute for matt surfaces) and classified into micro‑scratch resistance classes (MSR‑A1…A5).
- Operational details:
- Definitions included (cycle, rub, Lissajous figure).
- Annexes cover Lissajous checking and image classification after scratching.
Practical applications and users
- Who uses it:
- Laminate flooring manufacturers and R&D teams for product development and quality control.
- Independent test laboratories and certification bodies for durability testing.
- Specifiers, architects and procurement teams requiring objective performance data for flooring selection.
- Why it matters:
- Provides reproducible, comparable results for surface resistance to micro‑abrasion and polishing - critical for customer expectations, warranty claims and product differentiation.
- Enables selection of suitable surface treatments, decor finishes and protective layers to match end‑use requirements.
Related standards
- EN ISO 2813 - Determination of gloss value (20°, 60°, 85°)
- EN ISO 12945‑2 - Modified Martindale method (pilling/fuzzing/matting)
- EN ISO 12947‑1 - Martindale abrasion testing apparatus
Keywords: EN 16094:2021, laminate floor coverings, micro-scratch resistance, polishing resistance, Martindale tester, gloss measurement, mat surfaces, scrub material.
Standards Content (Sample)
SLOVENSKI STANDARD
01-september-2021
Nadomešča:
SIST EN 16094:2012
Laminatne talne obloge - Preskusna metoda za ugotavljanje odpornosti proti
mikropraskam
Laminate floor coverings - Test method for the determination of micro-scratch resistance
Laminatböden - Prüfverfahren zur Bestimmung der Mikrokratzbeständigkeit
Revêtements de sol stratifiés - Méthode d'essai pour la détermination de la résistance
aux micro-rayures
Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z: EN 16094:2021
ICS:
97.150 Talne obloge Floor coverings
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.
EN 16094
EUROPEAN STANDARD
NORME EUROPÉENNE
June 2021
EUROPÄISCHE NORM
ICS 97.150 Supersedes EN 16094:2012
English Version
Laminate floor coverings - Test method for the
determination of micro-scratch resistance
Revêtements de sol stratifiés - Méthode d'essai pour la Laminatböden - Prüfverfahren zur Bestimmung der
détermination de la résistance aux micro-rayures Mikrokratzbeständigkeit
This European Standard was approved by CEN on 30 May 2021.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway,
Poland, Portugal, Republic of North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and
United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels
© 2021 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 16094:2021 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
Contents Page
European foreword . 3
1 Scope . 4
2 Normative references . 4
3 Terms and definitions . 4
4 Principle . 5
5 Apparatus and materials . 5
5.1 Martindale tester . 5
5.2 Holder for scrub material . 5
5.3 Diffuse light source. 5
5.4 Reflectometer . 5
5.5 Positioning device . 5
5.6 Scrub materials . 6
5.7 Double-sided tape . 6
5.8 Soft cotton cloth . 7
5.9 Reference black high gloss HPL with anti-scratch surface by corundum in the surface
layer . 7
6 Assembly and maintenance of the Martindale tester . 7
7 Preparation and conditioning . 7
7.1 Preparation . 7
7.2 Conditioning . 7
8 Test procedure . 7
8.1 General. 7
8.2 Testing . 8
8.2.1 Measurement of gloss levels . 8
8.2.2 Procedure A . 8
8.2.3 Procedure B . 9
8.2.4 Procedure C . 10
9 Test report . 11
Annex A (normative) Method for checking the Lissajous figure . 12
Annex B (normative) Classification of the image after scratching according to procedure B . 13
European foreword
This document (EN 16094:2021) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 134 “Resilient,
textile and laminate floor coverings”, the secretariat of which is held by NBN.
This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by December 2021 and conflicting national standards
shall be withdrawn at the latest by December 2021.
Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent rights.
This document supersedes EN 16094:2012.
In comparison with the previous edition, the following technical modifications have been made:
— addition of a method C for evaluation of polishing effect on mat laminate flooring surfaces;
— introduction of a reference HPL for calibration of the respective scrub materials.
According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organisations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland,
Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Republic of
North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the
United Kingdom.
1 Scope
This document specifies a test method for the micro-scratch resistance with two procedures (A and B)
and a test method for polishing resistance (procedure C) which can be used for all types of laminate
floor coverings. The resistance to polishing is related to mat surfaces.
2 Normative references
The following documents are referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For
undated references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN ISO 2813, Paints and varnishes — Determination of gloss value at 20°, 60° and 85° (ISO 2813)
EN ISO 12945-2, Textiles — Determination of fabric propensity to surface pilling, fuzzing or matting —
Part 2: Modified Martindale method (ISO 12945-2)
EN ISO 12947-1, Textiles — Determination of the abrasion resistance of fabrics by the Martindale method
— Part 1: Martindale abrasion testing apparatus (ISO 12947-1)
3 Terms and definitions
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.
ISO and IEC maintain terminological databases for use in standardization at the following addresses:
— IEC Electropedia: available at https://www.electropedia.org/
— ISO Online browsing platform: available at https://www.iso.org/obp
3.1
cycle
completion of all the translational movements tracing a Lissajous figure comprising 16 rubs
Note 1 to entry: This comprises of 16 revolutions of the two outer drives and 15 revolutions of the inner drive of
the Martindale tester.
3.2
Lissajous figure
figure created by movement which changes from a circle gradually narrowing ellipses, until it becomes
a straight line, from which progressively widening ellipses develop, in a diagonally opposite direction
before the pattern is repeated
3.3
rub
one revolution of the two outer drives of the Martindale tester
3.4
mat surface
surface with a reflectometer value R' ≤ 7, measured with 60 ° geometry
Note 1 to entry: See 5.4.
4 Principle
The sample is fixed on a horizontal table. A circular scrub material fixed on a holder impacts on the
sample with a defined load. Table and holder are moved perpendicular to each other in a translational
movement, with defined frequencies, tracing a Lissajous figure. The holder is additionally freely
rotatable around its own axis perpendicular to the horizontal plane.
The sample is exposed to the scrub material for a predetermined number of rubs. The changes of the
surface are determined by gloss measurement and visual assessment.
5 Apparatus and materials
5.1 Martindale tester
The Martindale tester shall be as described in EN ISO 12947-1 with the following exceptions:
— the “abrading table” is the table for the sample;
— the “clamping ring and mechanism” is not necessary;
— the “specimen holder” is the holder for the scrub material;
— the “loading pieces” are not necessary.
5.2 Holder for scrub material
The holder for scrub material shall be as described in EN ISO 12945-2, with the following exceptions:
— version 1: the rubber retaining ring is not required. This assembly consists of spindle, scrub holder
and small ring weight. The total mass of this assembly is (413 ± 2) g (nominally called 4N);
— version 2: the assembly according to version 1, however the small ring weight is replaced by the
large weight. The total mass of this assembly is (612 ± 2) g (nominally called 6N).
5.3 Diffuse light source
Light source with artificial light providing evenly diffused light giving an illumination on the test surface
of (1 200 ± 400) lx.
5.4 Reflectometer
For gloss measurement with 3 angle measurement geometry as described in EN ISO 2813.
5.5 Positioning device
For gloss measurement on the same position before and after the test with 4 measurement points.
An example of a positioning device is shown in Figure 1.
Dimensions in millimetres
Key
1 measurement area
reflectometer – direction of movement for the measurement
Figure 1 — Sample with measurement area for the 4 gloss measurement points
5.6 Scrub materials
The scrub material shall be a nylon web imbedded with alumina abrasive. Three types of scrub
materials (very fine, medium fine and ultra-fine) are to be used. The scrub materials shall be cut or
stamped on a diameter of (89 ± 1) m
...
Frequently Asked Questions
EN 16094:2021 is a standard published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Its full title is "Laminate floor coverings - Test method for the determination of micro-scratch resistance". This standard covers: This document specifies a test method for the micro-scratch resistance with two procedures (A and B) and a test method for polishing resistance (procedure C) which can be used for all types of laminate floor coverings. The resistance to polishing is related to mat surfaces.
This document specifies a test method for the micro-scratch resistance with two procedures (A and B) and a test method for polishing resistance (procedure C) which can be used for all types of laminate floor coverings. The resistance to polishing is related to mat surfaces.
EN 16094:2021 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 97.150 - Floor coverings. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
EN 16094:2021 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to EN 16094:2012. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
You can purchase EN 16094:2021 directly from iTeh Standards. The document is available in PDF format and is delivered instantly after payment. Add the standard to your cart and complete the secure checkout process. iTeh Standards is an authorized distributor of CEN standards.
SIST EN 16094:2021은 라미네이트 바닥재의 마이크로 스크래치 저항성을 측정하기 위한 시험 방법을 상세히 규정하고 있습니다. 이 표준은 두 가지 절차(A와 B)를 포함하여 마찰 저항성에 대한 시험 방법(C 절차)을 제공하며, 모든 종류의 라미네이트 바닥재에 적용될 수 있습니다. 이 표준의 강점은 실용적인 시험 절차를 제공하여 다양한 바닥재의 내구성을 정확하게 평가할 수 있다는 점입니다. 특히, 마찰 저항성은 매트 표면에 관련된 내용이므로, 사용자들이 바닥재의 내구성을 선택하는 데 중요한 기준이 될 수 있습니다. SIST EN 16094:2021의 적합성은 라미네이트 바닥재 시장의 요구를 반영하며, 제품의 품질 보증 및 소비자 신뢰도를 높이는 데 기여합니다. 최신의 시험 방법을 규명함으로써, 이 표준은 바닥재 제조업체와 소비자 모두에게 실질적인 이점을 제공합니다. 특히, 장기적인 사용을 고려할 때 마이크로 스크래치 저항성과 폴리싱 저항성을 평가하는 것은 제품의 가치를 이해하는 데 필수적인 요소입니다. 따라서, EN 16094:2021 표준은 라미네이트 바닥재의 품질을 보장하고, 사용자에게 신뢰할 수 있는 정보를 제공하는 데 매우 중요한 역할을 한다고 할 수 있습니다.
The EN 16094:2021 standard provides a comprehensive framework for assessing the micro-scratch resistance of laminate floor coverings, addressing crucial aspects of durability and surface performance. Its scope includes two specific procedures (A and B) dedicated to measuring micro-scratch resistance, along with an additional method (procedure C) focused on polishing resistance. This multifaceted approach ensures that the standard is applicable to all types of laminate floor coverings, broadening its utility across diverse products in the flooring industry. One of the key strengths of this standard is its methodological rigor. By incorporating standardized testing procedures, EN 16094:2021 not only facilitates consistent results across various manufacturers but also empowers stakeholders-including producers, suppliers, and consumers-with reliable data for evaluating product quality. The ability to quantify micro-scratch resistance is particularly relevant in today’s market, where consumers are increasingly concerned about the durability of flooring products under everyday use conditions. Moreover, the focus on polishing resistance addresses a significant aspect of laminate floor coverings, particularly those with mat surfaces, which are prone to wear and deteriorate over time. By standardizing the test methods for both micro-scratch and polishing resistance, this document enhances the relevance of laminate flooring products in competitive markets, ensuring they meet consumer expectations for performance and longevity. In summary, the EN 16094:2021 standard is an essential benchmark for assessing laminate floor coverings' micro-scratch and polishing resistance. Its robust methodology and relevance to all types of laminate flooring not only enhance product quality assurance but also serve as a critical tool for industry stakeholders aiming to uphold high standards of durability in flooring solutions.
La norme SIST EN 16094:2021 est un document essentiel pour l'industrie des revêtements de sol stratifiés, spécifiant une méthode d'essai pour la détermination de la résistance aux micro-rayures. La portée de cette norme est particulièrement pertinente car elle aborde deux procédures (A et B) pour évaluer la résistance aux micro-rayures et une méthode supplémentaire (procédure C) pour mesurer la résistance au polissage, applicable à tous les types de revêtements de sol stratifiés. L'un des principaux atouts de cette norme est sa capacité à fournir des critères clairs et mesurables qui peuvent être utilisés pour tester différentes surfaces de revêtements de sol. Cela est essentiel pour les fabricants, car cela leur permet de garantir que leurs produits répondent aux attentes de qualité et de durabilité. De plus, la norme inclut des indicateurs de performance pour les surfaces mates, ce qui élargit son champ d'application et répond à la demande croissante sur le marché pour des solutions esthétiques sans compromettre la résistance. La pertinence de la norme SIST EN 16094:2021 réside également dans son approche systématique et normalisée pour évaluer la durabilité des revêtements. Dans le contexte actuel où les consommateurs recherchent de plus en plus des produits à la fois beaux et fonctionnels, cette norme offre une référence indispensable. Elle assure aux utilisateurs des propriétés fiables et constantes des revêtements de sol, tout en simplifiant les processus de certification et d'évaluation au sein de l'industrie. En somme, la norme SIST EN 16094:2021 se positionne comme un cadre de référence incontournable pour évaluer la résistance des revêtements de sol stratifiés, en offrant des méthodes d'essai robustes et adaptables aux exigences variées du secteur.
Die Norm EN 16094:2021 stellt eine umfassende Methodik zur Bestimmung der Mikrorissbeständigkeit von Laminatbodenbelägen zur Verfügung und bietet dabei zwei Prüfverfahren (A und B) sowie ein Verfahren zur Bestimmung der Polierbeständigkeit (Verfahren C). Diese standardisierte Vorgehensweise ist für alle Arten von Laminatbodenbelägen anwendbar, was ihre Flexibilität und Universalität unterstreicht. Ein bedeutender Vorteil dieser Norm liegt in ihrer detaillierten Beschreibung der Testmethoden, die eine konsistente Bewertung der Mikrorissbeständigkeit ermöglicht. Dies ist besonders relevant für Hersteller und Verbraucher von Laminatböden, da die Widerstandsfähigkeit gegenüber Mikrorissen ein entscheidendes Qualitätssigel für die Langlebigkeit von Bodenbelägen darstellt. Durch die klare Trennung der Verfahren A, B und C wird sichergestellt, dass spezifische Testerfordernisse je nach Art des Laminatbodens berücksichtigt werden. Ein weiterer Stärke der EN 16094:2021 ist die Berücksichtigung des Polierverhaltens bei matten Oberflächen, was für viele Verbraucher und Installateure von großer Bedeutung ist. Die Polierbeständigkeit ist ein entscheidender Faktor für die ästhetische und funktionale Qualität von Laminatböden, insbesondere in stark beanspruchten Bereichen. Insgesamt ist die SIST EN 16094:2021 von hoher Relevanz für die gesamte Branche. Sie bietet nicht nur klare Leitlinien zur Qualitätsbewertung von Laminatbodenbelägen, sondern trägt auch zur Sicherstellung von Konsistenz und Vertrauen in die Produktsicherheit und -qualität bei.
SIST EN 16094:2021は、ラミネートフロアカバリングのための微細キズ抵抗性を測定する試験方法を規定した重要な標準です。この標準の主な範囲は、2つの手順(AおよびB)と、研磨抵抗性を測定するための手順(C)を含む、すべてのタイプのラミネートフロアカバリングに適用される試験方法で構成されています。 この標準の強みは、微細キズ抵抗性を詳細に評価するための明確で系統的な手順を提供している点にあります。特に、手順AとBは異なるアプローチを用いて、さまざまな条件下でのラミネートフロアの性能を評価することができ、ユーザーは自らのニーズに最適な試験方法を選択することができます。また、手順Cはマット仕上げの表面に対する研磨抵抗の測定に特化しており、多様な製品における耐久性を確認する上で不可欠な要素となっています。 さらに、この標準は、ラミネートフロアカバリングの品質と信頼性を保証するために関連性が高く、業界全体において広く受け入れられています。特に、製造者や消費者が求める製品の耐久性に対する十分な情報を提供することから、サプライチェーン全体における信頼性の向上につながります。標準化された試験方法は、業界内のベンチマークを提供し、競争力を高めるための基準として機能します。 このような観点から、SIST EN 16094:2021は、ラミネートフロアカバリングの微細キズ抵抗性および研磨抵抗性を評価するための非常に重要な標準であり、その関連性と実用性は、業界の持続可能な発展に寄与するものです。
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