JP2023509728A - Carpet tiles and carpet coverings made from such carpet tiles - Google Patents

Abstract

A carpet tile comprising a base layer having a top side and a bottom side and a support layer fixedly connected to the bottom side of the base layer, preferably the top side of the base layer being provided with pile yarns. The support layer forms the bottom surface of the carpet tile, and the bottom surface of the carpet tile is provided with an adhesive for attaching the bottom surface to a suitable support surface and for attaching the bottom surface. A carpet tile that provides a base with sufficient adhesion to remove it from the supporting surface to which it is attached.

Description

The present invention relates to tiles, in particular carpet tiles, and also to tile coverings comprising a plurality of such tiles, especially carpet coverings comprising a plurality of such carpet tiles. The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing such tiles.

Historically, carpet tiles have been widely used in areas subject to intense wear and tear due to their flexibility. Recently, carpet tiles have become more fashionable. Because it came very close to the quality of a real carpet. Carpet tiles can meet all flooring requirements in high traffic, both residential and commercial locations. Carpet tiles are manufactured in a variety of sizes and styles and are particularly advantageous for covering floors with intricate shapes.

Besides the advantages mentioned above, carpet tiles have some drawbacks when used as floor coverings. For example, carpet tiles are usually provided with a support layer made of rubber, the dimensions of which can easily change over time from their original dimensions, in which case , the carpet tiles lose their shape. This causes the sides of the carpet tile to twist upwards, destroying not only the intended flat orientation parallel to the support surface, but also the co-planar orientation with adjacent carpet tiles. This warping phenomenon can be exacerbated by regular cleaning of the tiles with water or any other liquid agent.

Furthermore, known tiles are generally installed as floating (loose lay) floor coverings without the use of cement, which can lead to undesired displacement of the tiles with respect to the supporting surface. may become.

One of the objects of the present invention is to provide an improved tile, especially a carpet tile, to overcome at least one of the above mentioned drawbacks.

To achieve the above object, a first aspect of the present invention provides a tile, in particular a carpet tile, comprising a base layer having a top side and a bottom side and a base layer directly or indirectly attached to the bottom side of the base layer. and at least one adhesive layer affixed to the substrate. The at least one adhesive layer constitutes the lowest layer of the tile (at least in the installed state) and/or the at least one adhesive layer forms at least part of the bottom surface of the tile (at least in the installed state). stipulate. The adhesive layer provides sufficient adhesion to removably attach the tile to a suitable support surface. Preferably, one or more parts or all of the top side of the base layer is provided with pile yarns, making this type of tile a carpet tile.

A significant advantage of said tiles, especially carpet tiles, is that due to the bottom adhesive, the tiles can be conveniently attached to the support surface in a stable and durable manner, thereby ensuring proper placement on the support surface. Unnecessary displacement of the tiles later can be avoided. Moreover, the tiles can be removed vertically from the support surface in a practical way to correct their position or replace dirty or damaged tiles. Moreover, the (carpet) tiles have increased dimensional stability and allow for optimal flat installation.

In the context of the present invention, suitable support surfaces include any support surface with which the adhesive has an adhesive interaction. Such support surfaces may consist of wood, plastic, concrete, or the like. Suitable support surfaces are preferably non-porous, substantially flat, and constitute, for example, floors, walls, or ceilings.

In the (carpet) tiles according to the invention, the adhesive adhesion of the adhesive layer is preferably at room temperature (20°C) and preferably in a temperature range of at least 15°C to 25°C.

Said adhesion is thus developed at the most common temperatures at which (carpet) tiles are intended to be used. For a wider range of applications it is advantageous if the adhesion is achieved in the temperature range from 0°C to 50°C.

The adhesive layer may be a continuous layer or a discontinuous layer. The adhesive layer may be formed by a plurality of interconnected and/or spaced adhesive regions, such as dots or strips of adhesive. It is conceivable to provide a plurality of adhesive layers. Here, it is conceivable for at least two adhesive layers to be provided on top of each other (in parallel) and/or to lie in the same plane.

In the (carpet) tile according to the invention, the adhesive of the adhesive layer is present on the sides and/or corners of the bottom surface of the (carpet) tile, preferably on at least 50% of the total bottom surface of the (carpet) tile. It is advantageous to do.

Thus, the adhesive of the adhesive layer, among other things, prevents the corners and sides of the tile from twisting.

In a further preferred embodiment of the tile according to the invention the adhesive of the adhesive layer is configured to achieve a moderate adhesive strength of less than 15 MPa, preferably less than 10 MPa to a suitable supporting surface. .

With such moderate adhesive strength, (carpet) tiles mounted to a suitable support surface have attractive peel strengths, allowing a typical user to remove the (carpet) tiles from the mounted support surface. It's not that much work.

Advantageously, in the (carpet) tiles according to the invention, the adhesion of the bottom surface is developed over a period of at least 5 years, preferably at least 10 years.

In the (carpet) tiles according to the invention it is particularly preferred that the adhesive used in the adhesive layer is a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), preferably of the peelable type.

Pressure Sensitive Adhesives (PSAs) are ready-to-use adhesives that are tacky. Generally, PSAs are applied to flexible materials to form films. A special feature of these adhesives is that the PSA remains viscous without solidifying to form a solid material. PSAs therefore occupy a special position among the various adhesives that adhere by a physical mechanism. To produce a pressure sensitive adhesive system, the adhesive can be dissolved in an organic solvent (e.g. natural rubber, acrylate), can be present as an aqueous dispersion (e.g. acrylate dispersion), or It can be a solvent-free melt (pressure-sensitive melt).

A basic formulation of a PSA includes a base polymer, an adhesive resin, a plasticizer, and optionally additives to impart special properties.

The actual adhesion when using pressure sensitive adhesives results from intermolecular interactions. Typically, pressure sensitive adhesives remain in a viscous liquid state at the final bond. Thus, PSA viscosity has a direct effect on bond strength. In this context, it can be said that there is an important distinction between peelable and permanent adhesives.

Various low viscosity pressure sensitive adhesives result in low adhesive strength and the ability to re-remove the adhered object after use. These types of PSAs are tacky and have unlimited open time. That is, it can be almost permanently adhered to another substrate.

In the (carpet) tile according to the invention it is further preferred that the adhesive of the adhesive layer is a hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive and/or a hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive (HMPSA), preferably of the peelable type. .

Hot melt pressure sensitive adhesives (HMPSA) are a specific type of PSA and are based on thermoplastic adhesives. Similarly, a characteristic of HMPSA is that it does not set completely and is permanently sticky. Thus, excellent condensation bonding is obtained even when the cement is cold. The required contact pressure is the key to forming a sufficient film between objects to be joined by HMPSA.

HMPSA retains the property of providing useful adhesion at room temperature and under light pressure. Preferred examples of HMPSA are polyacrylate PSAs.

In the (carpet) tiles according to the invention, the adhesive is one or It is particularly preferred to include more than one type of thermoplastic elastomer.

These highly suitable thermoplastic elastomers can be tailored with various types of tackifiers (natural and synthetic resins) to obtain the specific adhesive performance required.

In the context of the present invention, HMPSA preferably comprises one or more types of SBC. Such HMPSAs are permanently tacky at room temperature and provide good bond strength with light finger pressure.

In a preferred embodiment of the tile, in particular (carpet) tile, according to the invention, at least one additional layer is located between the base layer and the adhesive layer. This additional layer may be a support layer fixedly connected to the bottom side of the base layer, in which case the adhesive layer, preferably the PSA layer, is provided on the bottom side of the support layer, Adhesive layers, in particular PSA layers, may be incorporated in additional layers.

Here, the support layer preferably includes or consists of an elastic layer, the elastic layer preferably having a cellular structure with open and/or closed cells.

Thus, due to the elasticity of the support layer, the tile adapts to any irregularities in the support surface on which it is placed. Additionally, the cellular structure of the support layer can further facilitate the installation and removal properties of the bottom surface of the tile.

Preferably, the additional layer, in particular the support layer, consists at least partially of nylon 6 (ie polycaprolactam), semi-crystalline polyamide, in particular nylon 6 fibres. More preferably, this layer is a perforated layer and/or an open layer, allowing the adhesive layer to penetrate additional layers during the manufacturing process, and furthermore, the adhesive layer allows the perforated additional A protective layer and/or an additional layer of release may be adhered to the base layer. Suitable adhesives in this case are, for example, polyacrylate-based PSAs. The perforated and/or open layers are typically formed by woven and/or non-woven layers.

Alternatively, the additional layer (i.e. the support layer), especially the elastic layer, is preferably made of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane (PU), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), At least one material selected from the group consisting of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rubber, or mixtures thereof.

Moreover, the elastic layer may contain fillers, in particular talc, chalk, wood and/or calcium carbonate.

Typically, the thickness of the elastic layer is between 0.1 mm and 6 mm.

It is conceivable that a resilient support layer (together with the adhesive layer) defines the underside of the tile. In this case, it is advantageous if at least the underside of the elastic layer is provided with a plurality of (superficial) suction openings so that the tiles can be quickly attached to and removed from the support surface. Preferably, the elastic support layer consists of an anisotropic material. Preferably, a plurality of superficial suction ports are formed on at least the lower surface of the elastic layer, the superficial suction ports are open in a direction opposite to the base, and the direction facing the base is substantially closed to These superficial suction ports therefore define independent voids. Typically, the superficial suction ports collectively define the void area (void surface area), and the material between the superficial suction ports on the lower surface of the elastic layer defines the material area (solid surface area). stipulate. Preferably, the surface area ratio between the void area and the material area is at least 4, preferably at least 5, more preferably at least 6, so that the tile can be quickly and relatively firmly attached to the support surface and the tile can be easily removed from the support surface. A significant advantage of the tiles, especially carpet tiles, according to the present invention is that due to the fast release adhesive support structure, the tiles are quickly attached to the support surface in a stable and durable manner. While constructed, it can also be quickly and easily removed from the supporting surface without leaving anything behind. These properties give said tiles, in particular carpet tiles, good dimensional stability, good flat laying properties, and their flexibility, which allows them to be mounted on floors, walls, even ceilings, etc., preferably It can be easily attached to, and removed from, a non-porous, substantially flat support surface. The underside of the elastic layer is free of adhesive, preferably free of adhesive or other chemical adhesive. Adhesiveness of the lower surface of the elastic layer is provided by the presence of small suction holes (micropores, shell-shaped voids and/or hemispherical microscopic spaces with suction effect). During installation, the tiles to be installed are pressed against the support surface, which forces air out of the suction openings. The elastic material located between the suction openings on the perimeter of the suction openings and/or on the lower surface then provides a substantially gas-tight seal between the lower surface of the elastic layer and the support surface. When the downward force acting on the tile to be installed is released, a vacuum (pressure less than atmospheric pressure) is created within the suction port, pulling the tile toward and into contact with the support surface. retained. The tiles are therefore much less prone to twisting and are stable against the supporting surface. This condition continues until a reverse pulling force that exceeds the suction force is applied to the tile, for example during reinstallation. Since no chemical adhesives (bonding agents) are used, the tiles according to the invention can be efficiently manufactured in an in-line manufacturing process. The tiles according to the invention are preferably carpet tiles and the pile yarns may consist of several natural or synthetic fibres. Although many types of yarn are produced in many different ways, typically there are two main types of yarn, spun yarn and filament. These threads may consist of nylon, but other suitable synthetic threads such as polyester, polypropylene, acrylic, or mixtures thereof may be employed. Carpet tiles may be rigid or flexible. It is also conceivable that the base does not contain any threads or fibers.

The elastic layer is designed to exhibit a "hard adhere, soft release" principle. This can be easily understood as follows. That is, when pulled in the stiff direction, less elastic energy can be stored in the material (just as a stiff spring can store less energy than a soft spring), resulting in an accidental The energy release rate that causes typical crack-like defects is lower. On the other hand, when pulled in the soft direction, considerably more elastic energy can be stored in the material, especially if the material is highly anisotropic, resulting in crack-like defects caused by the roughness of the supporting surface. Emission rate is considerably higher.

Preferably, the suction port is provided on substantially the entire lower surface of the elastic layer. This generally improves and increases the overall suction effect that can be achieved when placing the tiles on the support surface. The suction ports may be uniform in size, e.g., stamped, punched, and/or mechanically placed against the underside of the elastic layer, although the size of the suction ports may vary depending on the size of the elastic layer. It is generally advantageous if it is different across the underside of the . This allows, for example, the elastic layer to be made of elastic foam. The elastic foam may have closed cells (voids) and/or open cells (voids). Foams typically have cells of different sizes. In one embodiment, the elastic layer comprises ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), which is a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl acetate, rubber, polyurethane (PU), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), ( of a foamed material made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), plasticized, or mixtures thereof. The elastic layer optionally includes fillers such as chalk, talc, sand, fibers, wood, minerals, and/or carbon; blowing agents such as azodicarbonamide; cross-linking agents such as dicumyl peroxide; blowing agents such as zinc oxide. and/or other ingredients such as colorants. Preferably, the elastic layer of the tile according to the invention is a material such as sponge rubber in terms of softness and flexibility. The material has low temperature toughness, stress crack resistance, water resistance, hermetic sealability, and foam resilience after compression.

The support layer may comprise, for example, nonwoven sheets, woven sheets, nonwoven polyester sheets, polypropylene sheets, fiberglass scrims, tissue sheets, or combinations thereof.

It is further preferred that in the (carpet) tile according to the invention there is an intermediate core layer between the base layer and the support layer. Preferably, the intermediate core layer is rigid or flexible and is made of wood, especially MDF or HDF; polymers, especially PVC, PE, PP or PU; minerals such as magnesium oxide and/or calcium carbonate; or mixtures thereof. at least one material from the group of materials consisting of The thickness of the intermediate core layer is preferably at least 3 millimeters. The base layer thus constitutes a core layer which may be rigid or flexible, preferably wood, especially MDF or HDF; polymers, especially PVC, PE, PP or PU; minerals such as magnesium oxide; or mixtures thereof. It is also conceivable to include at least one material from the group of materials consisting of: It is contemplated and even preferred that at least one reinforcing layer, such as at least one glass fiber layer, is present within the core layer.

It is particularly advantageous if the (carpet) tile according to the invention is flexible as a whole.

The flexibility of the (carpet) tiles thus allows the user to easily remove the mounted (carpet) tiles from the supporting surface.

Typically, (carpet) tiles according to the invention have an overall thickness between 5 mm and 15 mm.

In the (carpet) tile according to the invention, the tile has two, preferably opposite sides, each provided with an interconnecting contour such as a tongue and a groove. More preferably, said profile is an integral part of the material of the support layer and/or of an intermediate core layer which may be included in a (carpet) tile.

More preferably, the interconnecting contours allow the connection of two (carpet) tiles by vertical and/or tilting movement of each side. It is contemplated and even preferred that one or more of the interconnecting features is provided with an adhesive, preferably a pressure sensitive adhesive, more preferably a hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive. This improves interconnection between adjacent tiles.

In a particular embodiment of the (carpet) tile according to the invention, a peelable protective film is attached to the underside of the adhesive layer of the (carpet) tile.

A removable protective film may be temporarily applied to the adhesive on the bottom of the (carpet) tile to protect the adhesive prior to use, especially during transport and storage. This protective film is formed, for example, by a removable backing, generally made of paper and/or plastic. The protective film is removed prior to tile installation.

Preferably, the (carpet) tile according to the invention comprises an additional thermoplastic layer that secures the base layer to the support layer.

In a (carpet) tile according to the invention, the base layer may alternatively comprise a decorative layer and optionally a transparent wear layer covering the decorative layer. This decorative layer of the tile according to the invention is at least partly composed of at least one tile, preferably at least partly of natural stone, marble, concrete, limestone, granite, slate, glass and slicable. tiles made from a material selected from the group consisting of ceramics. Alternatively, tiles according to the present invention may include a decorative substrate attached directly or indirectly to the top side of the base layer. A decorative substrate typically includes a printed layer and a protective layer covering the printed layer. The print layer is a printed, thermoplastic, especially PVC-based, applied (printed) on the top side of the base layer and/or on a base coat applied (directly or indirectly) on the base layer. It may be formed by a film or an ink layer. As previously mentioned, the decorative substrate preferably includes at least one decorative layer and at least one transparent wear layer covering the decorative layer. The decorative substrate may additionally comprise at least one backing layer located between the decorative layer and the core, the backing layer preferably consisting of a vinyl compound. A lacquer layer or other protective layer may be provided over the wear layer. This typically improves the scratch resistance of the tile. A finishing layer may be provided between the decorative layer and the wear layer. The decorative layer will be visible and is used to give the panel an attractive appearance. For this purpose, the decorative layer may have a design pattern, e.g. a wood grain design, similar to the grain of natural stone such as marble or granite, to name just a few examples of possible designs. It can be a mineral particle design, or a pattern of colors, a mixture of colors, or a single color. Customization of the appearance is also possible, often achieved by digital printing during the tile manufacturing process. The decorative substrate may be formed by a single layer.

If the tiles are carpet tiles or carpet-like tiles, the base layer is preferably provided with upwardly projecting pile threads. The pile yarn may consist of several natural or synthetic fibres. Although many types of yarn are produced in many different ways, typically there are two main types of yarn, spun yarn and filament. These threads may consist of nylon, but other suitable synthetic threads such as polyester, polypropylene, acrylic, or mixtures thereof may be employed. Carpet tiles may be rigid or flexible. It is also conceivable that the base does not contain any threads or fibers. The pile yarn may consist of loop pile. However, the pile yarns may also consist of cut pile, twisted pile or any other suitable pile yarn, for example of single-level or multi-level construction. The loop pile may be synthetic yarn such as nylon, polyester, polypropylene, acrylic, or mixtures thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the loop pile is tufted in the carpet base. The carpet base preferably further comprises a support sheet. The support sheet can be, for example, a nonwoven sheet, a woven sheet, a nonwoven polyester sheet, a polypropylene sheet, a fiberglass scrim, a tissue sheet, or combinations thereof. The support sheet typically acts as a support structure (holding structure) for holding the threads. A precoat layer is preferably applied in order to more effectively bond the tufts in place on the carpet base, in particular on the support sheet. This precoat layer can be, for example, a latex layer.

A portion of the top side of the base layer is provided with pile yarns, while another portion of the top side of the base layer is provided with at least one decorative substrate, preferably at least one (flat /2D) and at least one transparent wear layer covering the decorative layer. This results in a hybrid tile that is partly a carpet tile and partly a floor tile (floor panel or floorboard).

More preferably, the (carpet) tiles according to the invention are square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal in shape.

Preferably, the adhesive layer covers substantially the entire bottom side of the base layer. This generally improves the (peelable) bond between the adhesive layer and the support surface, and hence between the panel and the support surface, such as a subfloor. Additionally, the adhesive strength (or peel strength) per square centimeter of the bottom side of the adhesive layer is limited. As a result, the tear strength between the adhesive layer and the base layer is reduced to prevent the tiles from delaminating or tearing when attempting to peel the tiles from a supporting surface such as a subfloor. This makes it easier to produce reliable, durable tiles. Preferably, the adhesive strength on the bottom side of the adhesive layer is at least 170 g/cm when using an adhesive layer with a thickness in the range of 0.5 millimeters to 1 millimeter. Preferably, the bottom side of the adhesive layer forms a planar, ie (substantially) planar surface. This increases the surface area of contact formed between the adhesive layer and a supporting surface such as a subfloor.

The adhesive layer may be a film or a coating, but the adhesive layer may be thicker, for example at least 0.5 millimeters, preferably at least 1 millimeter, more preferably at least 1.5 millimeters, It is also conceivable that In this case, it is also conceivable to make it several millimeters. A relatively thick adhesive layer may be solid or foamed. Preferably, the adhesive layer is a relatively rigid or resiliently compressible layer. In the latter case, the adhesive layer can also be considered an elastic layer.

As noted above, the adhesive layer typically acts as a pressure sensitive adhesive. Here, the adhesive layer is preferably configured to provide adhesion based on polar or covalent forces upon application of load or pressure.

In the preferred embodiment already mentioned above, at least the underside of the adhesive layer is formed with a plurality of superficial suction openings, the superficial suction openings opening in the opposite direction to the base layer and the The facing directions are substantially closed. Preferably, the superficial suction ports as a whole define the void area, the material between the superficial suction ports on the underside of the adhesive layer defines the material area, and the ratio of the void area to the material area is The ratio between is at least 4, preferably at least 5, more preferably at least 6, which allows fast attachment to and fast removal from the support surface. Here, the adhesive layer is typically configured to provide polar vacuum-based adhesion when subjected to load or pressure.

Preferably, the adhesive layer is a hydrophobic layer. This can prevent the absorption of water or moisture by the adhesive layer, which affects the bondability of the adhesive layer.

Preferably, the adhesive layer is partially cured or hardened or wholly cured or hardened. Preferably, the adhesive layer is fused with the base layer. In the latter case, no additional layer or component is required to adhere the adhesive layer to the base layer.

Preferably, the adhesive layer and/or the base layer contain an antimicrobial substance and/or the adhesive layer and/or the base layer are coated with an antimicrobial agent. The included antimicrobial agent or agents inhibit the growth of bacterial, fungal, microbial, and other pathogens or non-pathogens and typically migrate to the tile surface over time. This achieves a concentration gradient that suppresses the growth of microorganisms that come into contact with the tile surface. Preferably, the antimicrobial agent is (i) halogenated phenyl ethers, halogenated salicylanilides, sesquiterpene alcohols, halogenated carbanilides, bisphenolic compounds, common phenols, formaldehydes, quaternary ammonium compounds, pyridine derivatives, and hexachloro selected from organic or organometallic antimicrobial substances such as phens and/or (ii) inorganic antimicrobial substances containing silver, zinc or copper in glass or ceramic substrates. The antimicrobial agent preferably includes 2,4,4'-trichloro-2'-hydroxydiphenyl ether. Antibacterial agents include triclosan, orthophenylphenol, diiodomethylparatolylsulfone, zinc pyrithione, sodium pyrithione, azoles such as propiconazole, polyhexamethylene biguanide hydrochloride, 3,4,4' trichlorocarbanilide, barium hydration and silver, copper, or zinc in zeolites or amorphous glass powders.

The adhesive layer covers at least one side wall, preferably at least two and/or each side wall of the base layer, the at least one side wall being connected to the bottom side of the base layer and preferably peeled off. It is conceivable that a possible protective film is applied to the adhesive layer and covers substantially the entire side of the adhesive layer facing away from the base layer. This allows the adhesive layer not only to bond the tiles to the support surface, but also to bond adjacent tiles together.

Preferably, the adhesive layer comprises at least one rubber-based adhesive and/or at least one selected from the group consisting of polyurethane acrylate, polyester acrylate, epoxy acrylate, epoxy urethane acrylate, and mixtures thereof. ) at least one acrylate-based adhesive comprising an acrylate compound. Natural polymers, including derivatives, are an area of interest due to their reproducibility and excellent biodegradability. For example, dimer acid is obtained by converting unsaturated fatty acids by a combination of pressure, temperature and catalyst. Due to the properties of dimer acid, which is a highly branched saturated hydrocarbon, polyester polyols can obtain properties such as hydrophobicity, hydrolysis resistance, and good thermal-oxidative stability. This provides a relatively low glass transition temperature (Tg), flexibility, hydrolytic stability, and thermo-oxidative stability for both low and high surface energy deposits. A unique family of polyurethane acrylates (PUAs) can be designed that has high adhesion to substrates and excellent flow properties that allow efficient wetting of substrates. Hydrogenated castor oil (HCO) can also be used to synthesize PUA for its flexibility and good fluidity.

A second aspect of the invention relates to a (carpet) tile covering comprising a plurality of adjacent tiles according to the first aspect of the invention.

More preferably, for (carpet) tile coverings, each adjacent edge of adjacent tiles is interconnected.

A third aspect of the invention relates to a method of manufacturing a tile, in particular a carpet tile, according to the invention, said method comprising:
a) providing a base layer having a top side and a bottom side, preferably at least part of the top side of the base layer being provided with pile yarns;
b) directly or indirectly applying an adhesive layer to the bottom side of the base layer, the adhesive layer providing sufficient adhesion to removably attach the tiles to a suitable support surface; wherein the adhesive layer preferably covers substantially the entire bottom side of the base layer;
c) providing a connection between the peelable protective film and the bottom surface of the adhesive layer;
including.

Protective films are also called release films or release liners. Typically, the protective membrane consists, at least in part, of a paper material and/or a polymeric material.

It may be advantageous to carry out step c) before step b). This means that the laminate of protective film and adhesive layer is first prepared and then the laminate is adhered to the substrate. Here, in step c), the adhesive layer is preferably initially applied to the protective film in a liquid state and then at least partially cured and/or at least partially solidified. When partially cured or hardened, the adhesive layer typically retains some degree of tack, and this property can be used to adhere the adhesive layer to the substrate, which is preferred. further cures and/or hardens the adhesive layer by heat and/or ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is also conceivable that the adhesive layer is totally cured and hardened before being attached to the base layer. When the adhesive layer is a hot-melt or hot-melt pressure-sensitive adhesive, the adhesive layer may be heated to some extent to increase its tackiness (increase stickiness) and bond it to the base layer. These bonding methods, also called fusion bonding, do not require the use of interlayers and/or separate bonding agents.

Further preferred embodiments of the invention are presented in the following non-limiting sections.

1. tiles, especially carpet tiles,
a base layer having a top side and a bottom side;
at least one adhesive layer directly or indirectly attached to the bottom side of the base layer;
Pile yarn is provided on at least a portion of the top side of the base layer,
the adhesive layer defines at least a portion of the bottom surface of the tile;
The adhesive layer provides sufficient adhesion to removably attach the tile to a suitable support surface.

2. Item 1. The tile of item 1,
The tile, wherein the adhesion of the adhesive layer is developed at least at room temperature.

3. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
A tile wherein the adhesive of the adhesive layer is present on the sides and/or corners of the bottom surface of the tile, preferably on at least 50% of the total bottom surface of the tile.

4. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The tile, wherein the adhesive layer provides a moderate adhesive strength of less than 15 MPa, preferably less than 10 MPa, to a suitable support surface.

5. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The tile, wherein the adhesion of the adhesive layer is maintained over a period of at least 5 years, preferably at least 10 years.

6. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The tile, wherein the adhesive of the adhesive layer is a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), preferably the peelable type of PSA.

7. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The tile, wherein the adhesive of the adhesive layer is a hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive (HMPSA), preferably the peelable type of HMPSA.

8. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The adhesive of the adhesive layer is one or more types of thermoplastic, such as styrenic block copolymer (SBC), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyacrylate, and/or amorphous polyolefin (APO). A tile containing an elastomer.

9. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The tile comprises at least one support layer located between the base layer and the adhesive layer, the support layer preferably comprising or consisting of an elastic layer, the elastic layer preferably being open-celled. and/or having a cellular structure with closed cells.

10. 10. The tile of paragraph 9,
The tile, wherein the support layer is a perforated and/or open layer, preferably a nylon-based layer, and wherein the adhesive layer penetrates at least partially into the support layer.

11. Item 11. The tile of Item 10,
The support layer is adhered to the base layer by a permeated adhesive layer, the tile.

12. The tile according to item 1 of items 9 to 11,
The support layer is selected from the group consisting of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane (PU), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rubber, or mixtures thereof. tile, comprising at least one material that is

13. The tile according to item 1 of items 9 to 12,
A tile in which there is an intermediate core layer between the base layer and the support layer.

14. 14. The tile of paragraph 13,
The intermediate core layer is rigid or flexible and at least from the group of materials consisting of wood, especially MDF or HDF; minerals; polymers, especially PVC, PE, PP or PU; minerals; or mixtures thereof. A tile containing one material.

15. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
A tile that is flexible as a whole.

16. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
A tile with an overall thickness between 5 mm and 15 mm.

17. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The tiles have two, preferably opposite, sides each provided with an interconnecting contour, such as a tongue and a groove, said contours preferably providing support A tile that is an integral part of the layer material and/or an intermediate core layer that may be included in a carpet tile.

18. 18. The tile of paragraph 17,
The tiles wherein the interconnecting contours allow the joining of two carpet tiles by vertical and/or tilting movement of each side.

19. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
A tile with a peelable protective film attached to the adhesive on the bottom of the carpet tile.

20. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
A tile that includes an additional thermoplastic layer that secures the base layer to the support layer.

21. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The base layer is
a decorative layer;
optionally, a transparent wear layer covering the decorative layer;
including, tiles.

22. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
A tile that is square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, or octagonal in shape.

23. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The adhesive layer is a foam layer, tile.

24. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The tile, wherein the thickness of the adhesive layer is at least 0.5 millimeters, preferably at least 1 millimeter, more preferably at least 1.5 millimeters.

25. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The tile, wherein the bond strength of the bottom side of the adhesive layer is at least 170 g/cm.

26. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The adhesive layer is configured to provide polar force-based adhesion upon application of load or pressure to the tile.

27. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
A tile in which the adhesive layer is formed by a pressure sensitive adhesive layer.

28. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The adhesive layer is a hydrophobic layer, the tile.

29. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The adhesive layer is a resiliently compressible layer of the tile.

30. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
A plurality of superficial suction ports are formed at least on the lower surface of the adhesive layer,
The superficial suction opening is open on the side opposite the base layer and substantially closed in the direction facing the base layer, the tile.

31. 31. The tile of paragraph 30, comprising:
The superficial suction port as a whole defines the void area,
The material between the superficial suction ports on the underside of the adhesive layer defines a material area,
A tile having a ratio between the void area and the material area of at least 4, preferably at least 5, more preferably at least 6, so that it can be quickly attached to and removed from the support surface. .

32. 32. The tile of paragraph 30 or 31, wherein
The adhesive layer is configured to provide polar vacuum based adhesion upon application of load or pressure to the tile.

33. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The tile, wherein the adhesive layer is at least partially cured.

34. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The adhesive layer is fused with the base layer, the tile.

35. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
the adhesive layer and/or the base layer comprises an antimicrobial substance and/or
A tile wherein the adhesive layer and/or the base layer is coated with an antimicrobial agent.

36. 36. The tile of paragraph 35, comprising:
Antibacterial agents are
(i) organic or organic compounds such as halogenated phenyl ethers, halogenated salicylanilides, sesquiterpene alcohols, halogenated carbanilides, bisphenolic compounds, common phenols, formaldehyde, quaternary ammonium compounds, pyridine derivatives, and hexachlorophene; a metallic antimicrobial and/or
(ii) an inorganic antimicrobial substance containing silver, zinc, or copper in a glass or ceramic substrate;
is selected from
The tile, wherein the antimicrobial agent preferably comprises 2,4,4'-trichloro-2'-hydroxydiphenyl ether.

37. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
an adhesive layer covering at least one sidewall of the base layer;
the sidewalls are connected to the bottom side of the base layer;
Preferably, a peelable protective film is attached to the adhesive layer and covers substantially the entire side of the adhesive layer facing away from the base layer.

38. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
Panels are tiles that do not contain pile yarn.

39. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The adhesive layer covers substantially the entire bottom side of the base layer, the tile.

40. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The bottom side of the adhesive layer forms a flat surface, tile.

41. The tile of any one of the preceding paragraphs, comprising:
The adhesive layer
at least one rubber-based adhesive and/or
at least one acrylate adhesive comprising at least one acrylate compound selected from the group consisting of polyurethane acrylates, polyester acrylates, epoxy acrylates, epoxy urethane acrylates, and mixtures thereof;
including, tiles.

42. 42. A tile covering material comprising a plurality of adjacent tiles according to any one of items 1-41.

43. Item 43. The tile covering material according to Item 42,
Adjacent sides of each of adjacent tiles are interconnected, tile coverings.

44. 42. A method of manufacturing a tile, in particular a carpet tile, according to any one of items 1 to 41, comprising:
a) providing a base layer having a top side and a bottom side, preferably at least part of the top side of the base layer being provided with pile yarns;
b) directly or indirectly applying an adhesive layer to the bottom side of the base layer, the adhesive layer providing sufficient adhesion to removably attach the tiles to a suitable support surface; wherein the adhesive layer preferably covers substantially the entire bottom side of the base layer;
c) providing a connection between the peelable protective film and the bottom surface of the adhesive layer;
A method, including

45. 45. The method of paragraph 44, wherein
A method wherein step c) is performed before step b).

46. 46. The method of paragraph 45, wherein
The method, wherein in step c) the adhesive layer is initially applied to the protective film in a liquid state and then cured at least partially.

47. The method according to item 1 of items 44 to 46,
A method wherein step b) is achieved by fusing an adhesive layer onto the base layer, preferably by heat treatment and/or UV irradiation of at least the adhesive layer.

48. Item 44-47 The method according to item 1,
The method, wherein in step b) the adhesive layer is provided in an at least partially cured state.

The invention will be further described with reference to the attached figures.

1 shows a cross-sectional view of a first possible embodiment of a tile according to the invention; FIG. Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a second possible embodiment of a tile according to the invention; Fig. 3 shows a third possible embodiment of a tile according to the invention; FIG. 4 is a sectional view along the section line AA in FIG. 3; FIG. 4 is a sectional view along the section line BB in FIG. 3;

Figure 1 shows a tile (101), in particular a carpet tile (101). The tile (101) comprises a base layer (102) and a support layer (103) attached to the underside of the base (102). The base layer (102) in the illustrated embodiment is a primary carpet base (102) having upwardly projecting pile yarns (104). The pile yarn (104) shown consists of a loop pile (104). However, the pile yarns (104) may consist of cut pile, twisted pile, or any other suitable pile yarn, eg, in a single-level or multi-level configuration. Loop pile (104) may be a synthetic yarn such as nylon, polyester, polypropylene, acrylic, or mixtures thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the loop pile (104) is tufted in the primary carpet base (102). The primary carpet base (102) includes a primary support sheet (105). The primary support sheet (105) can be, for example, a nonwoven sheet, a woven sheet, a nonwoven polyester sheet, a polypropylene sheet, a fiberglass scrim, a tissue sheet, or combinations thereof. A precoat layer (106) is applied to bond the tufts in place on the base layer (102), in particular on the primary support sheet (105). This precoat layer (106) can be, for example, a latex layer (106). This precoat layer (106) may also form part of the support layer (103). The support layer (103) comprises an elastic layer (107). The elastic layer (107) defines the bottom surface of the tile (101). The elastic layer (107) contains a plurality of cells (108). Air bubbles (108) are shown only schematically in the drawings. Bubbles (108) may have air or some type of gas trapped inside.

The bubble (108) has a diameter of, for example, 5 μm to approximately 1 mm. The elastic layer (107) has a thickness of, for example, 0.1 mm to 6 mm. In the illustrated embodiment, the elastic layer (107) consists of a foam material and/or contains a foaming agent. The bottom surface of the elastic layer (107) has a hermetic sealing effect. Moreover, the bottom surface of the elastic layer (107) is provided with an adhesive layer (109) by means of which the bottom surface of the tile can be attached to and removed from a suitable support surface. can. Optionally, the elastic layer (107) and the adhesive layer (109) may together form a single elastic adhesive layer.

The support structure (103) further comprises another internal adhesive layer (110). This adhesive layer (110) is, for example, a solventless, hot melt adhesive layer (110) provided on the precoat layer (106). A removable backing (110) may initially protect the adhesive layer (109) prior to use.

Figure 2 shows a tile (201), in particular a carpet tile (201). The tile (201) includes an upwardly projecting base layer (202). The carpet tile (201) further comprises a support layer (203) attached to the underside of the base layer (202). The support layer (203) comprises an elastic layer (207). The elastic layer (207) defines the bottom surface of the tile (201). A pressure-sensitive adhesive layer (209) is provided on the bottom surface. This allows the bottom surface of the tile to be attached to and removed from a suitable support surface. Optionally, the elastic layer (207) and the adhesive (209) layer may together form a single elastic adhesive layer.

The elastic layer (207) is similar to the elastic layer shown in Figure 1 and has a cellular structure containing cells (208). The pile yarns (204) shown in this embodiment consist of cut pile yarns (204). The cut pile yarns (204) may comprise, for example, PVC laminated to the primary support sheet (205) or nylon or other suitable material provided on a hot melt adhesive (206). The primary support sheet (205) may also be referred to as a reinforcing layer (205). The primary carpet base (202) may further include a fibrous face wear surface secured to the primary support sheet (205), which preferably has a fibrous back surface. The support structure (203) further comprises an intermediate layer (211) located between the base (202) and the elastic layer (203). The intermediate layer (211) may act as a support layer. The intermediate layer (211) is rigid or flexible and is of the group of materials consisting of wood, especially MDF or HDF; polymers, especially PVC, PE, PP or PU; minerals; or mixtures thereof. Contains at least one material. A removable backing (210) may initially protect the adhesive layer (209) prior to use.

Figure 3 shows a tile (301), in particular a panel (301), more particularly a floor panel (301) or a wall panel (301) according to the invention. The tiles (301) can be interconnected with similar tiles (301) to form floor coverings. The tile (301) includes a base (302) and a support structure (303) attached to the underside of the base (302). The support structure (303) includes an elastic layer (307). The elastic layer (307) defines the underside of the tiles (301). The lower surface is provided with an adhesive layer (not shown in FIG. 3), as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, to facilitate attachment to and removal from the support surface. , are both possible,

Moreover, the tile (301), in particular the support structure (303), comprises an intermediate core layer (312) located between the base (302) and the elastic layer (303). The intermediate layer (312) is rigid or flexible and at least from the group of materials consisting of wood, especially MDF or HDF; polymers, especially PVC, PE, PP or PU; minerals; or mixtures thereof. Contains one material. The thickness of the intermediate core layer (312) is, for example, at least 3 millimeters. The base (302) may include a top structure that includes a decorative layer. The decorative layer may be printed on the base layer, and a protective layer may be provided on the decorative layer. The base (302) may be, for example, a primary carpet base having upwardly projecting pile yarns, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, for example. The intermediate core layer (312) includes an upper portion (313) and a lower portion (314). The core layer (312) is provided on a first pair of opposite sides located on the longitudinal lateral sides of the tile (301), particularly on the first side (315) and the complementary second side (316), integrally connected. In addition, the core layer (312), in this exemplary embodiment, is provided on the second pair of opposing sides located on the short sides of the tile (301), specifically the fourth side (317) complementary to the third side (317). 318) and are integrally connected. An advantage of the presence of an intermediate layer (312) as shown in FIG. 3 is that it allows adjacent tiles (301) to be locked together. This results in locking between adjacent tiles (301) in a first direction, i.e. perpendicular to the plane of the tiles (301), and locking in a second direction, i.e. parallel to the plane of the tiles (301). A lock between tiles (301) can be realized. In addition, twisting changes of the tiles (301), ie changes that impair the shape of the tiles (301), are reduced. The illustrated tile (301) has a rectangular shape. However, the tiles (301) can also have a square, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal shape.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view along section line AA in FIG. This cross-sectional view details the shape of the complementary first (315) and second (316) sides. The first side (315) includes lateral tongues (329) integrally connected to the core layer (312). The vertical dashed line visualizes the boundary between the lateral tongue (329) and the core layer (312). The front region (329a) of the lateral tongue (329) is provided with a rounded bottom surface (320). The outer edge of the rounded bottom surface (320) adjoins the angled locking surface (321). The opposite ends of the rounded bottom surface (320) adjoin the bearing surface (322) and form part of the rear region (329b) of the lateral tongue (329). The second side (316) includes an upper lip (323) and a lower lip (324) defining a recess (325). Both lips (323, 324) are integrally connected to the core (312). A vertical dashed line visualizes the boundary between the lips (323, 324) and the core (312). As shown in Figure 3, the width of the upper lip (323) is considerably smaller than the width of the lower lip (324). The shape of the recess (325) is complementary to the shape of the lateral tongue (329). More specifically, the top surface (326) of the posterior region (324a) of the lower lip (324) has a (complementary) rounded shape and the lateral tongue (329). The front region (324b) of the lower lip (324) is provided with an upwardly projecting shoulder (327) while configured to cooperate with the rounded front region (329a). Cage and configured to cooperate with the bearing surfaces (322) of the lateral tongues (329). The lower surface (328) of the upper lip (323) is beveled and corresponds to the locking surface (321) of the lateral tongue (329). The locking condition at the first side (315) and the second side (316) of adjacent tiles (301) inserts the lateral tongues (329) of the connecting tiles (301) into the recesses (325). It will be realized by At this time, the tile (301) is initially held in a tilted position. After inserting the lateral tongues (329) into the recesses, the connecting tiles (301) are pivoted (tilted) downwards about an axis parallel to the first side (315) so that both tiles (301) ) in the same (generally horizontal) plane. At this time, the locking surfaces (321) of the lateral tongues (329) engage the locking surfaces of the upper lip (328) such that at least the bottom front portion is substantially contoured into the recess (325). ) and bearing surface (322) is supported by shoulder (327). The locked state at the first side (315) and the second side (316) locks the connected tiles (301) both horizontally and vertically. The principle of tilting and locking on the first and second sides (315, 316) is a relatively easy locking principle, whereby the connection between the tiles on these sides (315, 316) is significantly increased. become easier.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view along section line BB in FIG. This cross-sectional view details the shape of the complementary third (317) and second (318) sides.
The third side (317) includes an upturned tongue (339), an upturned flank (330) and an upturned groove (331) formed between the upturned tongue (339) and the upturned flank (330). include. The upturned tongue (339) is connected to the core (312) by bridges (332), which are preferably somewhat resilient. The side (339a) of the upward tongue (339) facing the upward flank (330) extends in the direction of the normal N1 to the upper side (313) of the core (312). Thus, the tangent line R1 and the normal N1 to the upper portion (313) of the core (312) point toward each other (converging orientation), and the angle between R1 and N1 is In configuration, it is preferably between 0 and 10 degrees. Due to the converging orientation of the upward flank (330) and the side (339a) of the upward flank (339) facing the upward flank (330), the upward groove is a closed groove and the upward tongue Complementary counterparts can only be reached by deformation of portions (339) and/or bridges (332). The other side (339b) of the upturned tongue (339) facing toward the upturned flank (330) forms an alignment edge and allows for easier connection with adjacent tiles (301). ing. As shown, this side (339b), which serves as an alignment edge, is oriented away from the normal N1 to the upper side (313) of the core (312). However, the upper side (339dd) of the upturned tongue (339) extends in the direction of the normal N1 to the upper side (313) of the core (312), facing away from the upturned flank (330) and pointing upwards. It extends obliquely downwards in the direction of the side (339e) of the tongue (339).This chamfering makes the complementary fourth side (318) a stiffer and therefore stronger form. The portion of the side (339e) of the upward tongue (339) facing away from the upward flank (330) is oriented substantially vertically and has an outward bulge (333). The lower portion (330a) of the upward flank (330) is oriented obliquely, while the upper portion (330b) of the upward flank (330) is shown generally vertical, with a third Forming stop surfaces for the four sides (318), additional connecting elements, in particular additional bulges, between the ramp (330a) and the substantially vertical portion (330b) on the upward flank. (334) is provided.The lower wall (331a) of upward groove (331) is oriented substantially horizontally in this exemplary embodiment.
The fourth side (318) is substantially complementary to the third side (317). The fourth side (318) includes a downward tongue (345), a downward flank (346) and a downward groove (347) formed between the downward tongue (345) and the downward flank (346). include. Downward tongue (345) is connected to core (312) by bridge (348), which is preferably somewhat resilient. The side (345a) of the downward tongue (345) facing the downward flank (346) lies in the direction of the normal N2 to the lower side (413) of the core (312). This means that the tangent R2 to the side (345a) of the downward tongue (345) and the normal to the lower side (314) of the core (312) converge to each other, R2 and The angle between N2 is preferably between 0 and 10 degrees in this exemplary embodiment. More preferably, the slope of R1 is the same as the slope of R2, so R1 and R2 are preferably parallel. Due to the converging orientation of the downward flank (346) and the side (345a) of the downward tongue (345) facing the downward flank (346), the downward groove (347) is a closed groove. , downward tongues (345) and/or bridges (348) can only be reached by upward tongues (339) of adjacent tiles (301). As a result of said deformation, the entrance of the downward groove can be (temporarily) widened. The side (345b) of downward tongue (345) facing away from downward flank (346) is oriented more obliquely than the complementary side (330a) of upward flank (330). It has a flat orientation. This creates a gap (air space) at the joint location and generally facilitates the joint between the two tiles (301). The sloped side (345b) of the downward tongue (345) also serves as an alignment edge to further facilitate the connection between the two tiles (301). The other side (345c) facing away from the downward flank (346) has a generally vertical configuration but is provided with a small air gap (349). Voids (349) are configured to interact with additional bulges (334) of other tiles (301). The top portion of the side (345c) facing away from the downward flank (346) forms a complementary stop surface for the stop surface (330b) of the upward flank (330) (of the adjacent tile). ing. The downward flank (346) is oriented generally vertically and is provided with a recess (340). The recess (340) is adapted to receive the outward bulge (333) of the upward tongue (339) (of the adjacent tile).

The inventive concepts described above are illustrated by several exemplary embodiments of carpet tiles and non-carpet tiles. It is envisaged that individual inventive concepts can be applied without applying the other details of the examples described in their application. It is not necessary to detail examples of all possible combinations of the described inventive concepts, as those skilled in the art will recognize that many inventive concepts can be combined (recombined) to arrive at a specific application. no.

It will be clear that the invention is not limited to the embodiments shown and described herein, but is capable of numerous modifications within the scope of the appended claims which will be apparent to a person skilled in the art.

The verb "comprise" and its conjugations as used in this patent publication means not only "comprise," but also "contain," "substantially consist of." is also understood to mean "formed by" and their conjugations.

Claims (46)

tiles, especially carpet tiles,
a base layer having a top side and a bottom side;
at least one adhesive layer directly or indirectly attached to the bottom side of the base layer;
A pile yarn is provided on at least a portion of the top portion side of the base layer,
the adhesive layer defines at least a portion of the bottom surface of the tile;
the adhesive layer provides sufficient adhesion to removably attach the tile to a suitable support surface;
The adhesive layer covers substantially the entire bottom side of the base layer,
The tile, wherein the bottom side of said adhesive layer forms a flat surface. 2. The tile of claim 1, wherein the adhesive layer exhibits adhesive properties at least at room temperature. Tile according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the adhesive of the adhesive layer is present on the sides and/or corners of the bottom surface of the tile, preferably on at least 50% of the total bottom surface of the tile. 4. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said adhesive layer achieves a moderate adhesive strength of less than 15 MPa, preferably less than 10 MPa, to a suitable supporting surface. 5. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adhesive layer exhibits adhesion over a period of at least 5 years, preferably at least 10 years. 6. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adhesive of the adhesive layer is a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA), preferably of the peelable type. The adhesive of said adhesive layer is a hot melt or hot melt pressure sensitive adhesive (HMPSA), preferably a peelable type HMPSA, more preferably an at least partially cured acrylic HMPSA. 7. A tile according to any one of clauses 1-6. The adhesive of the adhesive layer is one or more thermal adhesives such as styrenic block copolymer (SBC), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyacrylate, and/or amorphous polyolefin (APO). 8. A tile according to any preceding claim, comprising a plastic elastomer. Said tile comprises at least one support layer located between said base layer and said adhesive layer, said support layer preferably comprising or consisting of an elastic layer, said elastic layer preferably comprising 9. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, having a cellular structure with open and/or closed cells. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the support layer is a perforated layer and/or an open layer, preferably a nylon-based layer, and the adhesive layer at least partially penetrates into the support layer. Tile as described. 11. The tile of Claim 10, wherein the support layer is adhered to the base layer by a permeated adhesive layer. The support layer is from the group consisting of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane (PU), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), rubber, or mixtures thereof. A tile according to any one of claims 9 to 11, comprising at least one selected material. A tile according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein between said base layer and said support layer there is an intermediate core layer. Said intermediate core layer is rigid or flexible and is of the group of materials consisting of wood, especially MDF or HDF; minerals; polymers, especially PVC, PE, PP or PU; minerals; or mixtures thereof. 14. A tile according to claim 13, comprising at least one material. 15. A tile as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, which is flexible as a whole. 16. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, having an overall thickness between 5mm and 15mm. Said tiles have two, preferably opposite, sides, each provided with an interconnecting contour, such as a tongue and a groove, preferably said contour comprising: 17. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, which is an integral part of the support layer material and/or an intermediate core layer which may be included in the carpet tile. 18. A tile according to claim 17, wherein said interconnecting contours allow connection of two carpet tiles by vertical and/or tilting movement of each side. 19. A peelable protective film is attached to the adhesive layer on the bottom surface of the carpet tile and/or to the bottom side of the adhesive layer. tile. 20. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising an additional thermoplastic layer fixing the base layer to the support layer. The base layer is
a decorative layer;
optionally at least one transparent wear layer covering the decorative layer;
21. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: 22. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, which is square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal or octagonal in shape. 23. A tile according to any preceding claim, wherein said adhesive layer is a foam layer. 24. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said adhesive layer has a thickness of at least 0.5 millimeters, preferably at least 1 millimeter, more preferably at least 1.5 millimeters. 25. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adhesive layer has a bottom side adhesive strength of at least 170 g/cm. 26. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the adhesive layer is configured to provide polar force based adhesion upon application of load or pressure. 27. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said adhesive layer is formed by a pressure sensitive adhesive layer. 28. A tile according to any preceding claim, wherein said adhesive layer is a hydrophobic layer. 29. A tile according to any preceding claim, wherein said adhesive layer is a resiliently compressible layer. A plurality of superficial suction ports are formed on at least the lower surface of the adhesive layer,
30. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said superficial suction opening is open in a direction facing away from said base layer and substantially closed in a direction facing said base layer. The superficial suction port as a whole defines a void area,
the material between the superficial suction ports on the lower surface of the adhesive layer defines a material area;
The ratio between the void area and the material area is at least 4, preferably at least 5, more preferably at least 6, which allows fast attachment to and fast removal from the support surface. 31. A tile according to claim 30. 32. A tile according to claim 30 or 31, wherein the adhesive layer is configured to provide polar vacuum based adhesion when subjected to load or pressure. 33. A tile according to any preceding claim, wherein said adhesive layer is at least partially cured. 34. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said adhesive layer is fused with said base layer. said adhesive layer and/or said base layer comprises an antimicrobial substance and/or
35. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said adhesive layer and/or said base layer is coated with an antimicrobial agent. The antibacterial agent is
(i) organic or organic compounds such as halogenated phenyl ethers, halogenated salicylanilides, sesquiterpene alcohols, halogenated carbanilides, bisphenolic compounds, common phenols, formaldehyde, quaternary ammonium compounds, pyridine derivatives, and hexachlorophene; a metallic antimicrobial and/or
(ii) an inorganic antimicrobial substance containing silver, zinc, or copper in a glass or ceramic substrate;
is selected from
36. A tile according to claim 35, wherein said antimicrobial agent preferably comprises 2,4,4'-trichloro-2'-hydroxydiphenyl ether. the adhesive layer covers at least one sidewall of the base layer;
the sidewalls are connected to the bottom side of the base layer;
37. Preferably, a peelable protective film is attached to said adhesive layer and covers substantially the entire side of said adhesive layer facing away from said base layer. or the tiles described in paragraph 1. 38. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel is free of pile yarns. The adhesive layer is
at least one rubber-based adhesive and/or
at least one acrylate adhesive comprising at least one acrylate compound selected from the group consisting of polyurethane acrylates, polyester acrylates, epoxy acrylates, epoxy urethane acrylates, and mixtures thereof;
39. A tile according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising: A tile covering comprising a plurality of adjacent tiles according to any one of claims 1-39. 41. The tile covering of claim 40, wherein respective adjacent sides of adjacent tiles are interconnected. A method of manufacturing a tile, in particular a carpet tile, according to any one of claims 1 to 39, comprising:
a) providing a base layer having a top side and a bottom side, preferably at least part of said top side of said base layer being provided with pile yarns;
b) directly or indirectly applying an adhesive layer to said bottom side of said base layer, said adhesive layer being sufficiently adhesive to removably attach said tiles to a suitable support surface; wherein said adhesive layer preferably covers substantially the entire bottom side of said base layer;
c) providing a connection between the peelable protective film and the bottom surface of said adhesive layer;
A method, including 43. The method of claim 42, wherein step c) is performed before step b). 44. A method according to claim 43, wherein in step c) the adhesive layer is initially applied to the protective film in a liquid state and then at least partially cured. 45. Any one of claims 42 to 44, wherein step b) is realized by fusing the adhesive layer onto the base layer, preferably by heat treatment and/or UV irradiation of at least the adhesive layer. The method described in . 46. A method according to any one of claims 42 to 45, wherein in step b) the adhesive layer is provided in an at least partially cured state.

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