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International Product Assurance Laboratories
100 Clemson Research Blvd.
Anderson, SC 29625
Certified Porcelain Testing
Marketplace confusion, installation problems and even liability concerns can result when entities misrepresent non-porcelain tile in the marketplace. IPA Laboratories is the only authorized U.S. lab that performs porcelain certification for the Porcelain Tile Certification Agency (PTCA).
The Porcelain Tile Certification Agency (PTCA)
In November 2007, the Ceramic Tile Distributors Association (CTDA) and the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) launched the PTCA to certify porcelain tile.
Standards define porcelain tile as an impervious tile with a water absorption of 0.5% or less, as the ASTM C373 test method measures. However, entities advertise and sell tile not meeting this standard as porcelain tile in many instances.
Under the PTCA certification program, manufacturers who want to prove that their tile is porcelain — meeting the 0.5% water absorption criteria — can have professionals test their product to determine compliance with that requirement. Then, they may use the PTCA certification mark on their product packaging, marketing materials and more as confirmation of that compliance.
Benefits of Porcelain Certification
The program benefits manufacturers, distributors and end users. The misrepresentation of non-porcelain tile can have harmful effects on all these parties.
Marketplace confusion currently exists over what is and is not porcelain. However, porcelain certification verifies that the tested samples have met the official water absorption criteria.
The Certification Process
Manufacturers may apply for certification by submitting samples of the lightest color in each series for qualifying tests. They also pay for the testing, as well as the initial and annual certification and participation fees.
The PTCA conducts the porcelain certification program, educates the public on the benefits of porcelain certification, conducts research and helps develop porcelain tile tests and test methods.
For more information, please download the PTCA brochure.
Comprehensive
Testing
Broad array of ISO 17025-accredited tests for ASTM, ANSI and ISO standards, as well as customized testing for research and development
Unparalleled
Experience
Lab staff with over 125 years of combined experience in product evaluation and research
Multidisciplinary
Expertise
Engineers and scientists on staff, combined with additional collaboration with Clemson University and others
Standards
Insight
Participation and leadership in more than 20 international standards committees, providing unmatched knowledge into standards and testing methods
Additional Resources
After many years and hundreds of hours of research by International Product Assurance (IPA) Laboratories, ANSI A137.3 American National Standard
In the ever-evolving landscape of construction and design, staying informed on industry standards is imperative. The latest update to the
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International Product Assurance Laboratories
100 Clemson Research Blvd.
Anderson, SC 29625