Mechanical Performance of Microcement

One of the most important aspects in choosing a wall and floor covering material is its mechanical strength, which determines its durability and ability to withstand external stresses. Due to the combination of cement and polymer resins, microcement ensures high internal cohesion and remarkable resistance to both compression and bending.

– Compression Resistance: high-end microcements achieves values of 13.2 MPa (ASTM C109/C109M), making it suitable for surfaces subjected to moderate mechanical stress.

– Flexural Strength: Microtopping® offers good flexibility and crack-bridging properties (786 μm, UNI EN 1062-7), ensuring improved elasticity compared to traditional cementitious coatings.

– Adhesion to Substrates: Due to its formulation with acrylic resins, Microtopping® provides an adhesion strength of 2.61 MPa (ASTM D4541), preventing detachment or delamination over time.

These parameters make it a reliable solution not only for residential environments but also for commercial and industrial applications where mechanical stress is more intense.

Absorption Coefficient and Moisture Resistance

Unlike other cementitious materials, microcement has an extremely low water absorption coefficient, thanks to the presence of polymer resins and sealing treatments. This makes it ideal for applications in bathrooms, spas, and even inside shower enclosures.

Thermal Performance: Conductivity and Compatibility with Wall Heating

One of the less frequently discussed but highly relevant aspects for professionals is the thermal behavior of microcement. Due to its thin layer and cementitious nature, Microtopping® has low thermal inertia, making it compatible with radiant wall heating systems.

Its thermal conductivity has been tested to be 0.46 W/mK (ASTM E1530-11), ensuring even heat distribution without significant dispersion. This characteristic makes it ideal for projects aimed at maintaining energy efficiency without compromising the aesthetic appeal of the cladding.

Abrasion Resistance and Surface Degradation

The abrasion resistance of Microtopping®, especially in high-performance formulations, is one of its standout qualities. It has been tested according to ASTM D4060 and UNI EN 13892/4, with a classification of AR0.5 and a resistance of 6.97 MPa, making it particularly suitable for surfaces exposed to foot traffic.

Beyond its abrasion resistance, the Microtopping® surface has low susceptibility to delamination or degradation due to mechanical stress, ensuring durability comparable to traditional construction materials such as porcelain stoneware while maintaining a seamless, joint-free aesthetic.

Resistance to Freeze-Thaw Cycles and Thermal Stability

The thermal stability and resistance of microcement to freeze-thaw cycles are strongly influenced by its modified cement and polymer resin composition. High-end microcements are designed with a mix that minimizes porosity, a key feature to prevent moisture absorption that could cause damage during freeze-thaw cycles.

Unlike traditional materials that may crack or swell due to water absorption, microcement maintains its structural integrity even in extreme environmental conditions. Its resistance to freeze-thaw cycles can be verified through tests compliant with UNI EN 13501-1 standards. Its ability to remain stable even at very low temperatures, without deterioration or performance loss, makes it ideal for outdoor applications, such as balconies, terraces, and areas exposed to extreme temperature variations. It is recommended to apply proper sealing treatments in outdoor applications to enhance its longevity.

Chemical Resistance and Durability in Industrial Cleaning Systems

From a chemical standpoint, microcement formulated with advanced polymer resins exhibits notable resistance to a wide range of chemicals, including diluted acids, bases, and organic solvents. In particular, epoxy or polyurethane formulations, when applied as a protective finish, provide additional resistance to chemical attacks, making the material suitable for industrial and food-processing environments, where exposure to aggressive substances is frequent.

Additionally, its resistance to abrasive agents used in industrial cleaning systems, which may include alkaline detergents or industrial disinfectants, is excellent, with the ability to maintain surface integrity without significant alterations. This characteristic, combined with resistance to thermal shocks, contributes to the longevity and aesthetic performance of microcement, reducing the need for extraordinary maintenance.

Fire Classification

Microtopping® has been tested according to UNI EN 13501, achieving a classification of A2FL-S1, and ASTM E84-16, where it has Flame Spread Index (FSI) = 0 and Smoke Developed Index (SDI) = 5. This makes it a safe material for a wide range of applications.

The Ideal Solution for Your Projects

If you are an architect or interior designer, microcement offers the perfect balance between innovation, functionality, and aesthetics. The possibility of customizing textures, finishes, and colors allows it to meet a wide range of design requirements, providing modern and durable solutions for various applications.

Microtopping® represents an opportunity to design aesthetically refined and technically advanced spaces that can withstand the test of time and the most demanding conditions, with minimal environmental impact.

For all these reasons, microcement stands out as the ideal choice for projects aiming for high construction quality, timeless aesthetics, and superior performance.