Thermal conductivity studies on ceramic floor tiles

Thermal diffusivity, thermal conductivity and specific heat of several materials used as floor tiles have been measured using the laser flash method. Natural stones, particularly granite, porcelain stoneware and red stoneware materials of low water absorption, are more effective thermal conductors than white stoneware and vinyl, which have thermal conductivities below 1 W m−1 K−1. Therefore, last two should not be recommended for radiant floor heating applications. Enhancement of thermal conductivity of red and porcelain stoneware has been achieved by adding Al2O3 of certain characteristics to the ceramic paste. In this way, thermal diffusivity increases of up to 50% have been obtained by adding 20 wt.% of Al2O3 particles.