Expert guide for proper selection of mat substrate material
When selecting mats for household or office use, we often encounter various material designations. Most commonly, we come across TPE, NSF rubber, Vinyl, and Latex designations. Each of these materials has its specific properties and suitability for use.
In this article, we will present the individual materials in detail and help you make the right choice. The correct material selection is crucial for long-term satisfaction and functionality of your mat.
NSF rubber is nitrile rubber, a synthetically produced material that is an alternative to natural rubber.
High resistance to oils, fats, and non-polar liquids
Excellent resistance to mechanical stress
Resistant to many chemicals
Resistant to thermal aging
Vinyl materials are made primarily from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a harder and more resistant material.
Stronger structure with higher thermal resistance
Suitable for high-traffic areas
Excellent resistance to moisture
Easy to clean and maintain
Does not deform easily
Latex is a natural material obtained from the milky sap of the Brazilian rubber tree, which is processed by vulcanization into rubber.
High elasticity and abrasion resistance
Excellent adhesion
Environmentally acceptable
Pleasant feeling upon contact
Maintains its shape even after deformation
TPE is a thermoplastic elastomer - a polymer material that has elastomer properties (rubber properties) at room temperature but is processed like a thermoplastic.
Pleasant to touch, lightweight and flexible material
Excellent floor adhesion
100% biodegradable, non-toxic, odorless
Possibility of reprocessing
Maintains properties even with intensive use
Maintains flexibility even at low temperatures
Thermoplastic elastomer - ecological and flexible material with excellent properties for indoor use
Nitrile rubber - durable synthetic material ideal for industrial use
PVC material with high resistance to extreme temperatures and weather conditions
Natural rubber with excellent elasticity and anti-slip properties
| Property | TPE | NSF Rubber | Vinyl | Latex |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Softness | ||||
| Indoor Use | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
| Outdoor Use | ⚠️ | ✅ | ✅ | ⚠️ |
| Frost Resistance | ||||
| Oil Resistance | ||||
| Environmental Impact |
TPE: Ideal for living rooms, bedrooms - ecological and comfortable
Latex: Excellent for bathrooms, kitchens - natural slip resistance
NSF Rubber: Best choice for workshops, warehouses with oils and chemicals
Vinyl: Suitable for high-traffic areas requiring easy maintenance
Vinyl: Most resistant to extreme temperatures (-25°C)
NSF Rubber: Good choice for mild frost (-20°C)
Vinyl withstands extremely low temperatures down to -25°C and does not fade under direct sunlight.
NSF rubber has a temperature range of -20°C to +70°C and is suitable for outdoor areas with frost.
Biodegradable material that is environmentally friendly
Obtained from rubber tree milk sap, but sensitive to external conditions
Less frequent replacement means lower environmental burden
Fewer chemicals needed for cleaning and maintenance
Consider climatic conditions and temperatures at the place of use
Indoor vs. outdoor, household vs. industrial
Selection of ecological materials for a sustainable future
Consider lifespan and maintenance in overall evaluation
Selecting the right mat material depends on specific needs and usage conditions. For general household use, TPE and latex are excellent choices due to their softness and comfort. For more demanding industrial environments and outdoor use, NSF rubber and vinyl prove effective.
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