i4F, a group of companies providing patents and technologies to the flooring industry, has signed multiple agreements with Amorim, including a strategic patent partnership and two license agreements. Through the patent partnership, i4F has secured exclusive licensing rights to Amorim’s sustainable rigid bio-cork composite patent portfolio and will represent Amorim on IP related matters associated with those technologies. Simultaneously, Amorim has signed two license agreements, covering i4F’s drop-lock and digital printing technologies. Amorim has also acquired a Jupiter digital printing line with DLE plus from Hymmen, delivering direct-on-board digitally printed decors and digitally embossed-in-register lacquer structures.
Amorim’s patented, sustainable rigid bio-cork composite is 100% plastic and PVC free. The bio-cork core consists of a matrix material comprising cork particles as well as other bio and recycled materials. End products will boast an exceptionally low – to negative carbon footprint, all the while delivering performance comparable to, or even surpassing that of traditional rigid-core products.
Based in Portugal, Amorim is the world’s largest producer of cork-based products and market leader in the production of versatile, high quality cork flooring and wall decorations, with strong sustainability credentials. The introduction of i4F’s drop-lock will begin at their facility early 2024.
Used by the world’s biggest flooring manufacturers, on billions of square feet of flooring each year, i4F drop-lock technologies deliver the world’s best and easiest water-resistant flooring installation systems. 30% faster to install than traditional angle/angle, i4F drop-lock technologies are suitable for existing high-speed production. They also eliminate the need for inserts meaning faster installation, lower costs, fewer materials and a lower carbon footprint.
