Large-surface flooring, such as those in airports, hospitals, and schools, may soon receive a new lease on life thanks to an ambitious project focused on technology transfer and sustainable innovation.
The key players in this initiative are Artigo S.p.A, an Italian company that is part of the Mondo Sport&Flooring, and and inovaLab, a spin-off from the University of Padua, supported by STAM, as the Technology Broker for the European Space Agency (ESA) in Italy, in collaboration with the Italian Space Agency (ASI).
The initiative draws inspiration from innovative solutions currently being developed in the field of bio-based adhesives and additives (which are non-toxic and highly recyclable) specifically for the flooring sector. With a composition of up to 95% bio-based materials, these adhesives could revolutionize the recycling process for flooring materials through a heat-activated debonding system.
Through a devulcanization process, the materials used in flooring coverings can be regenerated as secondary raw materials, significantly reducing environmental impact and offering new opportunities for circular economy practices.
Artigo estimates CO₂ savings in the range of 100 to 200 tons per year, depending on the volume of flooring returned from the market.