Engineered Stone Alternatives

Following years of campaigning from unions, professionals in public health and doctors, Australia has banned engineered stone from being manufactured, supplied, processed or installed before July 1, 2024. Engineered stone contains up to 97% crystalline silica in its composition, and as the silica dust remains airborne in the manufacturing process of cutting, grinding and polishing, it is inhaled by workers. Exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) can cause respiratory diseases including silicosis, progressive massive fibrosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis, and lung cancer.

Silicosis in particular has seen a large increase in cases in recent years in Australia, which is irreversible, debilitating, and can be fatal, hence the urgency regarding its prohibition. As there are very few exemptions to the engineered stone ban in Australia, industries will need to act fast to minimise its impact. Whilst this is great news from a health and safety point of view, those who are building homes are set to face significant delays that could last months, and a price increase of 30% for engineered stone alternatives.

What will replace engineered stone? One such alternative to engineered stone is set to transform the landscape of interior design and construction is now available. Krion® is a next-generation solid surface developed by Porcelanosa Group that is now available through the exclusive distributor Mulford. Offering a solid surface with an attractive finish without the health risks posed by engineered stone will quickly fill the gap in the market.

We’ll be exploring Krion® in greater detail, delving into its composition and safety, its unique features that are not found in stone products, as well as its wide range of applications.

A Safe Alternative To Engineered Stone

Available Now, Krion®  has quickly emerged as a solution that tackles the engineered stone health risk, offering a safer alternative to engineered stone without compromising on quality or design versatility.

Composition & Safety

Consisting of more than two-thirds natural minerals, and a small percentage of high-resistance resins, Krion® Solid Surface Sheets are made from sustainable and safe materials, free from harmful compounds that boast exceptional properties. Unlike engineered stone, it doesn’t produce any RCS during the manufacturing process, without the risk of silicosis and other respiratory issues. Backed by NSF, Greenguard, A+, BPA Free, HPD and Declare certificates that regulate substances in manufacturing, and indoor air quality, amongst other things, this engineered stone alternative is a welcomed change away from harmful products that can impact long-term health.

Unlike other synthetic materials, Krion® has low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, that contribute to better indoor air quality, as referenced by its Greenguard certification. This makes it an ideal choice for environments where air quality is a concern, such as healthcare facilities, schools, and residential spaces. As Solid Surface Sheets are non-porous, Krion® is inherently antibacterial without the need for additives—it also prevents the growth of mould and mildew—making it easier to maintain hygiene on surfaces in kitchens, bathrooms, and hospitals as well.

Aesthetics & Design

Krion®’s appeal extends far beyond its safety features. Its versatility and attractive design mean that it can be used in projects where interior design and architecture are a top priority. Offering a warm, stone-like feel, it mimics the aesthetic of natural materials whilst providing enhanced durability and functionality. The Solid Surface is available in a broad range of colours and finishes, from the Ultra white finish of the K-Life series to bold and vibrant hues in the COLORS series, softer natural colours in the NATURE series, and the LUXURY series, that offer stunning finishes from wood to precious marble.

The large sizes of the sheets gives designers the freedom to create expansive, uninterrupted surfaces, which can then be thermoformed into various shapes, allowing for unique, seamless surfaces to be created that were difficult to achieve with traditional materials. The sky is the limit for designers when using Krion®, as the same product can be used for bold statement pieces as well as subtle and elegant applications.

Durability & Maintenance

Krion® has many safety and design benefits, but it also offers exceptional durability and ease of maintenance, making it ideal for residential and commercial applications. Highly resistant to wear, impacts, and chemicals, Solid Surface Sheets maintain their appearance and integrity over time, and are easily repairable unlike many traditional materials. Minor scratches or damages can be easily buffed out, and more significant repairs can be made without leaving a visible mark, allowing its surface to be returned to its original condition. As it is, non-porous, the surface is incredibly easy to clean and maintain, with minimal effort required. Krion® is also resistant to stains and chemical damage, making it ideal for high-traffic areas or spaces where spills and heavy use are likely to occur.

Environmental Considerations

Australia’s construction industry is embracing sustainable materials as part of growing environmental awareness and consciousness, making Krion® a suitable choice for designers and developers who are looking to take a step forward. Krion® Solid Surface Sheets are 100% recyclable and can be reprocessed and used in new applications at the end of their lifecycle, reducing waste and environmental impact, and supporting a circular economy. Its durability and repairability need less frequent replacement than alternative materials, making it a more sustainable solution.

Applications Of Krion®, The Engineered Stone Alternative

Krion® Solid Surface Sheets offer designers and architects the flexibility to create cohesive, stylish environments for different sectors, whilst maintaining the highest standards of safety.

Healthcare

Hygiene is critical in healthcare settings, and the non-porous, antibacterial surface of Krion is ideal for surfaces such as countertops, sinks, and washbasins with high-contact, as well as surfaces that have direct contact with food and medical equipment. Its seamless finish also minimises dirt and the risk of bacterial growth in joints and crevices, supporting a cleaner, safer healthcare environment.

Hospitality

As Krion® offers the perfect blend of aesthetics and functionality, it is a good choice for hotels and restaurants. Reception desks, bar tops and bathroom vanities are the perfect opportunity to use Solid Surface Sheets, as they are durable, easily maintained, and attractive, making them perfect for high-traffic areas. Plus, the wide range of finishes available can allow them to be incorporated into any design choice or style without compromising on quality.

Retail

In retail environments, Krion® can be used to create stunning displays, countertops, and signage. Resistant to wear and tear, Solid Surface Sheets will continue looking great even in busy areas with frequent touchpoints, and their repairability means that any damage can be quickly and easily fixed.

Residential

In-home applications, Krion® offers a luxurious alternative to traditional countertop and surface materials. Its warmth to the touch and stone-like appearance give the aesthetic appeal of natural materials with enhanced durability and hygiene properties that anyone can appreciate. From kitchen countertops to bathrooms and many other applications in between, Krion® Solid Surface Sheets allow homeowners and designers to create unique, seamless designs that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical.

As Mulford introduces Krion® to the Australian market, the Solid Surface Sheets will quickly fill the void as an alternative to engineered stone. The safety, versatility, and aesthetic appeal of Krion® make it an attractive option for designers, architects, and consumers, whilst ensuring worker and consumer safety is not compromised. Awareness of health risks is growing following the COVID-19 pandemic, and Krion® signifies a shift towards safer and more sustainable design practices. Its imminent introduction will play a crucial role in shaping the future of interior design and construction, as we set new standards for what we expect from our surfaces.

Looking ahead past the engineered stone ban in Australia, Krion® is a beacon that will shine the light on new possibilities available in the form of innovative building products and materials.

To learn more about Krion® products, how they will be able to benefit your next project with safe and sustainable finishes, or how to make an order, get in touch with the Mulford Australia team now.

About Mulford

For 78 years, Mulford has been providing high-quality products and pioneering numerous products throughout the Asia Pacific region. Mulford's materials are utilised across various dynamic industries, including Building and Construction, Corporate Signage, Shop-fitting, Engineering, Mass Transportation, Digital Printing, Electrical, and Electronics.

We pride ourselves on always delivering exceptional technical and product support to assure our customers of applying the right product for the right application. Plus, thanks to our vast network of sales and distribution centres, customers are also guaranteed first-class service from our dedicated teams who understand the importance of your business.