Development of floor coatings and floor covers from the beginnings of nuclear technology

Coatings, rubber and PVC covers and, very rarely, vitrified-clay tiles are used to protect floor surfaces in nuclear medicine and nuclear technology. In the early sixties, the test method developed at the Karlsruhe Nuclear Research Center was employed to select from the large variety of products available on the market a preliminary number of surface materials for use in nuclear facilities. As a result of the findings made at that time, hygroscopic additives were minimized, non-hygroscopic filler materials optimized, and tests were run to reduce gloss and examine various shades of color, employing continuously improved test methods. The materials most easily decontaminted and most suitable for practical use were further tested for abrasion, resistance to chemicals and, in some cases, radiation stability. (orig.)