Tarkett builds solid foundation for PVC flooring as Riflex flexes its renewable muscles

THE future of PVC flooring in Sweden has never been better – thanks to INEOS’ biggest customer in Scandinavia.

Tarkett is now selling PVC flooring that is free from phthalates, a type of plasticiser that has long been at the centre of controversy.

Not only that, but the company’s PVC flooring has become the first to receive the blessing of a well-respected trade association in Sweden.

The Swedish Byggvarubedömningen lists Tarkett’s iQ Granit on its database as a product that it recommends.

The BVB, as it is known, evaluates all building materials to allow the construction industry to make environmentally-sound choices. So far its experts have evaluated more than 7,000 products but new ones are being added continuously.

Approval for Tarkett’s PVC flooring is also good news for INEOS which currently supplies the company with its PVC every year.

Meanwhile, Swedish company Riflex Film AB, another of INEOS’ customers, has developed a range of products using a new plasticiser that is based on renewable resources.

Managing director Magnus Jörsmo said the investment was part of the privately-owned company’s quest to become Europe’s leading producer of niche speciality PVC films.

INEOS supplies Riflex with polymers produced at INEOS ChlorVinyls in Stenungsund.