EN 12105:1998

Overview

EN 12105:1998 is a CEN European Standard that defines a laboratory method for the determination of moisture content in agglomerated composition cork used in resilient floor coverings. The standard was adopted by national bodies (for example as SIST EN 12105:1999 in Slovenia) and sits within the ICS fields for non‑textile floor coverings (97.150) and cork and cork products (79.100). EN 12105:1998 provides a consistent, reproducible approach to assess moisture levels that affect product performance, handling and installation.

Key topics and requirements

The standard focuses on the following technical aspects:

• Scope and applicability - defines the types of agglomerated cork products covered and the limits of the method.
• Definitions - key terms related to moisture measurement and agglomerated cork materials.
• Sampling - guidance on representative sample selection to ensure reliable results.
• Test method - a laboratory procedure for determining moisture content (expressed in a standard format) designed to be repeatable across testing facilities.
• Apparatus and materials - identification of the equipment and conditions necessary to carry out the test.
• Expression of results - how moisture content should be calculated, reported and interpreted for quality control and compliance.
• Accuracy and reproducibility considerations - instructions to minimize variability and improve comparability between laboratories.

Note: EN 12105:1998 specifies the method framework and reporting expectations rather than product acceptance criteria; users should consult product specifications or national regulations for acceptance limits.

Applications

EN 12105:1998 is practically useful for:

• Manufacturers of resilient floor coverings using agglomerated cork who need in‑house quality control and product development data.
• Independent testing laboratories performing standardized moisture tests for clients and certification bodies.
• Specifiers, architects and contractors who require documented moisture measurements to inform product selection, storage and site preparation.
• Procurement and compliance teams verifying supplier declarations and conformity with European market requirements.

Consistent moisture measurement helps prevent dimensional instability, adhesion failure and installation problems associated with moisture-sensitive cork composites.

Related standards

• Other CEN standards covering resilient floor coverings, installation practices and product specifications (refer to CEN documentation for exact references).
• National adoptions (for example SIST EN 12105:1999) reflect EN 12105:1998 in local standards collections.

Keywords: EN 12105, resilient floor coverings, agglomerated composition cork, moisture content, CEN standard, cork products, testing method, quality control.