In search of the elementary: tactile surfaces inspired by the particles of the universe

The search for the fundamental particle has been feeding curious minds for much longer than we realize. Leucippus and Democritus, Greek philosophers of the 5th century BC. BC, were the first to propose that the entire universe was made up of particles called atoms, indivisible and colliding with each other in an infinite void. Since then, many studies have been carried out on how the dynamics actually take place at the atomic level (neutrons, protons and electrons), and there is still much to discover. Understanding the Higgs boson, for example, can even lead to a new understanding of the origin of the universe and of life, as it can explain how elementary particles have mass. Going from atomic abstraction to the world as we know it is fascinating. It is this immersion in the particle – the smallest known part of the universe – that inspired the new collection of the Italian company Fiandre Architectural Surfaces, which produces ceramic pieces for space.

From particle to mass, from mass to matter, from matter to surface, from surface to application. “Ideally starting from the origins of the universe, the Big Bang, PULSAR is inspired by matter, not only in its geological sense but also as the genesis of the atom ad infinitum, in search of an architectural and symbolic that connects man to his deepest roots. .” This is the path explored by the collection: like a sensory journey, an explosion of material with stylistic and emotional value, enriched with a beautiful tactile and visual depth. PULSAR is inspired by matter, not only in its geological sense, but also as the genesis of the infinite atom, in search of an architectural and symbolic identity that connects human beings to their roots. deeper.

PULSAR is a new collection by Fiandre Architectural Surfaces, generated from natural raw materials. Its uses are mainly for floor and wall coverings, and the pieces can be used in interiors and humid environments, in sizes 120×120, 120×60 and 60×60 cm, all 1 cm thick. With a natural look rich in detail, earth tones create a variety of combinations for both classic and avant-garde projects.

The full-bodied technique used for its manufacture reveals the full thickness of the product, which is uniform and constant from the surface through the body. This feature makes it ideal for designs with molded and visible edges, allowing surfaces to be decorated by subtraction, as if engraved. That is to say that the part retains its initial appearance throughout the thickness, even in the event of wear or deterioration. To achieve this, a pioneering production process is used, where raw materials and natural minerals are combined without any predetermined pattern, creating a harmonious blend of granules and flakes that make each slab unique and unrepeatable.

The series comes in five natural color shades – Snow Pulsar, Graphite Pulsar, Gravel Pulsar, Silt Pulsar and Dune Pulsar – and three finishes – Satin (smooth and silky to the touch, but matte), Natural R10B (textured to the touch, but without any visual roughness) and structured R10B (plays on textured irregularities accentuated by light, a specificity that makes it visually ideal for wall coverings).

In addition to aesthetic and tactile properties, the patented Active Surfaces® technology explores the photo-catalytic properties of titanium dioxide which, together with silver, make ceramic an anti-microorganism and odor-resistant material. Through exposure to light (natural or artificial) and air humidity, Active Surfaces® are able to eliminate bacteria, viruses, fungi and moulds. Likewise, they also eliminate bad smells, prevent the formation of polluting particles and prevent dirt from sticking, leaving rooms healthier and more comfortable. Their antiviral effectiveness has also been proven for the COVID virus, which can be eliminated by 94% in just 4 hours of exposure to natural and artificial light.

Learn more about this and other Fiandre products in our materials catalog.