Mimmik Tiles are currently available in 400 x 200 mm with a thickness of 19 mm, designed for interior surface applications.
Ceramic tiles rely on extremely energy-intensive firing processes, while Mimmik tiles form through mineral growth processes. Ceramic production typically involves kiln temperatures above 1000°C.
Mimmik tiles form through biomineralisation, which avoids this step and significantly reduces embodied carbon.
Testing and application scope are currently focused on interior applications. Until further testing and certification are completed, Mimmik tiles are specified primarily for interior architectural applications.
Yes. The final product is an inorganic mineral material. Once mineralisation is complete, the resulting structure is stable and comparable to other mineral-based building materials used in construction.
Mimmik tiles are developed for interior architectural applications, including floors and walls.
Subtle natural variations can occur, similar to other mineral materials. Slight variations in texture and tone can contribute to a natural appearance.
Yes. The production process is designed with scalability in mind. The manufacturing process can be scaled through controlled growth environments and modular production systems.
Like many mineral materials, the surface may develop subtle character over time depending on use and maintenance.
Because it combines architectural durability with a fundamentally different and significantly lower-carbon production process.
The production process of Mimmik Tile can potentially reduce the following:
For all technical documentation, please check our Downloads Centre >
The current figures are based on Life Cycle Assessment modelling and are being validated through an independent LCA.
The preliminary result of <5.5 kg CO₂e per m² (A1–A3) is based on internal modelling following LCA methodology. An independent Life Cycle Assessment is currently being finalised, which will form the basis for a verified EPD.
The current estimate covers A1–A3, which includes:
Like many mineral building materials, Mimmik Tiles can be crushed and reused as mineral aggregate.
At end-of-life, mineral tiles can be processed in similar ways to other mineral construction materials. Further circularity pathways are being explored as part of the material development roadmap.
Like many mineral tile materials, the performance of Mimmik Tile depends on proper installation and sealing.
Mimmik Tile can be used in wet spaces, such as bathrooms, when installed according to the recommended installation system and sealing guidelines.
Mimmik Tile forms a dense mineral matrix designed for architectural applications. The material is designed for architectural surfaces, including commercial environments, depending on installation and project conditions.
Testing and development continue to evaluate performance characteristics such as wear resistance and long-term durability.
The main sustainability benefit of Mimmik Tile comes from avoiding high-carbon production processes rather than relying on carbon storage.
The bacteria only play a role during the mineral formation stage. They are not active in the final material.
The microorganisms initiate the mineralisation process during production. Once the mineral matrix is formed, the biological activity stops, and the result is a stable inorganic mineral structure comparable to other mineral-based building materials.
The underlying biomineralisation process of Mimmik Tile is well studied and increasingly applied in materials science. Microbial-induced mineralisation has been studied extensively for applications such as soil stabilisation, self-healing concrete and mineral material formation.
Mimmik Tile applies these principles in a controlled manufacturing environment to produce architectural tiles.
Mimmik Tile shares mineral durability characteristics with concrete, but the binding mechanism is fundamentally different. Traditional concrete relies on Portland cement hydration, while Mimmik relies on mineral formation triggered through biomineralisation. This allows the material to achieve structural integrity with a lower carbon intensity than conventional cement-based tiles.
Because Portland cement is typically the largest carbon contributor in conventional concrete-based tiles, we compare Mimmik Tile to Portland cement tiles. The calcination of limestone during cement production releases large amounts of CO₂. By forming mineral structures through biomineralisation instead of cement hydration, Mimmik can significantly reduce the embodied carbon associated with the binder phase.
Instead of relying on high-temperature kilns or conventional Portland cement chemistry, Mimmik tiles form through biomineralisation. This refers to the process where biological organisms trigger the formation of minerals. Similar processes occur in nature when corals, shells and limestone structures grow.
During production, bacteria initiate the formation of calcium-based minerals that gradually bind the material into a solid mineral matrix. Once this process is complete, the result is a stable inorganic mineral material, comparable to other mineral construction materials.
Mimmik Tile are installed using conventional tile installation systems with thin-set mortar and grout. The process is largely similar to the installation of ceramic tile, though installers should follow the dedicated installation guidelines.
Do the tiles require sealing? Yes. A penetrating sealer is recommended to protect the surface and support long-term performance. A pre-grout seal helps prevent grout haze and protects the tile surface during installation.
Can normal grout be used? Yes, provided it is compatible with the installation system.
Are special adhesives required? Standard thin-set mortars that comply with tile installation standards can be used.
For the current version of the installation manual, please check our Downloads Centre >
Biomineralisation processes are widely studied in materials science and biotechnology. Research into microbial-induced mineralisation dates back decades and has been explored in fields such as geotechnical engineering, carbon sequestration and construction materials.
Biomason® started its journey in 2012. Today Mimmik Tiles are made with third-generation Zymecrete™ technology by Biomason®. The manufacturing process is designed for architectural production at scale.
Preliminary modelling indicates less than 5.5 kg CO₂e per m² (A1–A3).
This represents approximately 60% lower embodied carbon compared to a comparable Portland cement-based concrete tile. The footprint is lower because the production process avoids the most carbon-intensive step in conventional cement products: the calcination of limestone and high-temperature kiln processes.
An independent Life Cycle Assessment is currently being finalised and will form the basis for a verified Environmental Product Declaration.
Mimmik Tile behaves similarly to other mineral tile materials. The material forms a dense mineral matrix comparable to cementitious products. Mechanical behaviour such as fracture patterns is consistent with other mineral-based architectural materials.
At the current stage, the tiles are primarily developed for interior applications until further testing is completed.
No more than other mineral tiles when installed correctly. Proper installation, sealing, and substrate preparation ensure performance comparable to other mineral tile systems.
For projects less than 500 m², the lead time is 8 weeks from a signed quotation.
Larger projects (> 500 m²) might need additional production time. Please enquire with our sales team about specific lead times for your larger project.
Mimmik Tile is a next-generation mineral tile grown through a bacteria-driven mineralisation process inspired by natural mineral growth. The process forms a durable mineral structure without relying on energy-intensive firing or conventional Portland cement chemistry.
Mimmik Tile shares some characteristics with cement-based materials but is produced through a biomineralisation process rather than traditional cement hydration or ceramic firing.
The name ‘Mimmik Tile’ refers to mimicking natural mineral growth processes. Previously called ‘BioBasedTiles’, the name ‘Mimmik’ better reflects the biomimetic mineral growth process behind the material.
For full technical specifications, please consult the Declaration of Performance (DoP) available on our website.
Download here >
Yes. The Mas tile is safe for wet areas and flooring. Thanks to its high anti-slip rating, it remains secure and comfortable to use even in damp conditions.
Pretty Plastic Panels, crafted from 100% recycled PVC, are primarily designed as aesthetic cladding elements for ventilated facades. While PVC inherently possesses low thermal conductivity (approximately 0.19 W/m·K), the panels are not intended to provide insulation. Consequently, specific insulation metrics like R-values or U-values do not apply to this product.
In typical installations, Pretty Plastic Panels are mounted on ventilated facade systems with separate insulation layers behind the cladding. This design ensures that while the panels offer visual appeal and weather protection, the actual thermal performance of the building envelope is determined by the underlying insulation materials.
If you’re considering Pretty Plastic Panels for a project, it’s essential to integrate appropriate insulation within the façade system to meet thermal performance requirements. For detailed technical specifications and guidance on integrating these panels into your building design, please refer to the official documentation in our download centre.
Pretty Plastic transforms recycled PVC (rPVC) into beautiful, functional facade panels, helping keep valuable materials in the loop and out of landfills. Since these panels are used outdoors, they are exposed to UV radiation, which can affect plastics over time—impacting strength, flexibility, and colour.
While virgin PVC is known for good UV stability, there’s limited data on how rPVC behaves. To address this, Pretty Plastic is collaborating with KIWA to conduct laboratory tests under ISO and ASTM standards, focusing on tensile strength, colour change, and overall UV durability. These tests will guide improvements, such as using stabilisers or coatings, to extend the panels’ lifespan.
Additionally, studies show rPVC contributes minimally to microplastic pollution, especially compared to incineration or landfill disposal. Through ongoing testing and innovation, Pretty Plastic is committed to delivering sustainable, long-lasting cladding solutions that meet both aesthetic and environmental goals.
Visit our download centre for all technical documents >
The primary long-term failure point of a floor tile is wear resistance. Mandatory tests confirm that Skip Tile exceeds the European Standard requirement for porcelain, which allows a maximum of 175 mm³ of material loss; our tiles show only 162 mm³ of abrasion.
Based on this performance, we classify the lifespan of Skip Tile as 50 years, aligning with the durability of porcelain tiles and vitrified porcelain tiles, which typically last between 50 and 60 years.
In reality, these tiles could last for centuries. However, longevity depends on usage and conditions—tiles in a residential kitchen will experience significantly different wear than those in a busy train station concourse.
Skip Tile has a Pendulum Test Value (PTV) of 36+.
In general, the term “biobased” indicates that a product contains bio-based components. It is always important to enquire with a supplier about the precise amount of bio-based components, as sometimes blending just 5% biomass is sufficient to label a product as “biobased”.
Read more about this topic >
Mimmik Tile is listed as ILFI™ Declare Red List Free and has a Health Product Declaration (HPD).
Skip Tile is made from stable ceramic and glass materials. This material does not contain any Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs).
Paper Waste Panels are certified A+ air quality under the Grenelle Law, showing that the product has minimum emissions of pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Pretty Plastic Panels are made from 100% recycled PVC, with Aluminium Trihydrate (ATH) added for fire retardancy and compounded colour stabilisation. The advanced injection moulding process ensures material stability, minimising VOC emissions during manufacturing and use.
With a B-s3, d0 fire classification under EN 13501-1:2018, Pretty Plastic Panels comply with European and UK regulations for VOC emissions, offering a sustainable and low-emission solution for indoor and outdoor applications.
WasteBasedBricks and WasteBasedSlips are made from natural and recycled raw materials without the use of synthetic additives or binders that could release VOCs over time.
During the high-temperature kiln-firing process, any organic compounds naturally present in the materials are effectively neutralised. This process renders the bricks inert and non-combustible, minimising any risk of VOC emissions.
WasteBasedSlips have been tested for anti-slip according to English and European Standards using a pendulum test (CEN/TS 16165, annex C / BS 7679:2) and a ramp method with footwear (CEN/TS 16165, annex B).
The pendulum test results in an average friction coefficient of PTV 67, classifying the WasteBasedSlip as a product with low slip potential. The ramp method results in an average maximal gradient of 31.1 degrees, classifying the WasteBasedSlip as R12 according to the assessment table slip resistance characteristics in DIN 51130.
Paper Waste Panels have a fire class of C-s1-d0.
WasteBasedBricks- and Slips fall under Fire Class A1 in accordance with EN 13501-1, the highest classification for fire performance in construction materials. This means the bricks are non-combustible and do not contribute to fire at any stage.
Skip Tile falls under Fire Class A1 in accordance with EN 13501-1, the highest classification for fire performance in construction materials. This means the tiles are non-combustible and do not contribute to fire at any stage.
Yes, the Skip Tile has a weighted average specific product EPD. By avoiding spray drying, Alusid’s Mas reduces the amount of energy used by approximately 45%. This translates to a 51%* reduction of the amount of CO₂ released and 44% less water used in comparison with the average Spanish-produced tile.
*CO₂ and water saving is based on published verified EPD data for GWP-total/WDP (A1-A3 cradle to gate) per m² and is a comparison of weighted average Mas tile range with the average tile from data provided by Spanish Ceramic Tile Manufacturers Association members (ASCER) published in 2024.
You can download the EPD here >
The Skip Tile MAS range comes in two sizes and four colours with a single matt, finely and subtly textured surface.
See the full range of Skip Tile here >
Yes, Skip Tiles are versatile and can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications, all of the tiles in the MAS range are vitrified and have a typical water absorption of 0.6%, meaning they are resistant to freeze-thaw action.
Alusid’s process is designed to use significantly less energy than traditional manufacturing, further reducing its environmental impact. Alusid subcontract factories in Spain use solar power where possible, but they do use a lot of energy to fire Alusid products.
Yes, Skip Tiles are designed to be stain-resistant and resistant to low-concentration acids and general household cleaners. Find the full technical documentation in our Download Centre.
Skip Tiles are easy to maintain. The surface is highly stain-resistant (Class 5), so limescale and soap residues can be easily removed without affecting the tile’s appearance.
For regular cleaning or removing limescale and soap buildup, both acidic and alkaline household cleaning products can be used. The Skip Tile MAS has been tested as Class A for household cleaners and pool chemicals.
In regions with very hard water or when used in swimming pools, we recommend a citric acid-based cleaner. Tests show that even at concentrations of 100 g/L over 24 hours, this does not affect the Skip Tile.
Find the full product care guide in our Download Centre.
Yes, Skip tiles can be cut to size; they are vitrified tiles and are extremely durable and hard. We therefore recommend that Skip tiles be cut using standard diamond cutting tools typically used for porcelain with precautions taken to control dust.
Find the full product installation guide in our Download Centre.
Skip Tiles do not require any sealing. Find the full product installation guide in our Download Centre.
Thanks to Alusid’s innovative manufacturing process, Skip Tiles are highly durable and resistant to wear. They are suitable for high-traffic areas and harsh conditions.
Alusid makes all solid surface products in the UK from the Alusid Preston production facility. The majority of Alusid sustainable tile products are made in Spain, including the Mas Tile.
Skip Tiles are manufactured using upcycled materials, reducing waste and energy consumption. Alusid’s production process aligns with sustainable practices, making the MAS range an eco-friendly choice.
For more details, please download the Skip Tile EPD >
Skip Tiles should be installed using standard tile adhesive and grout. For best results, it’s recommended to hire a professional installer familiar with the product.
Skip Tiles are made using recycled materials, including clay and ceramic waste, making them a sustainable choice for residential and commercial spaces. The range is between 95% and 98.5% recycled, depending on the colour.
Colours can be customised by providing a RAL or NCS code. The custom colouring will be free of charge for orders bigger than 250 m² — if less, there will be a small additional charge.
Please talk to our experts for more information.
Currently, the Paper Waste Panels collection comprises three patterns debossed on the panel surface, offering various shadow effects. The unique pressing technology enables pattern customisation for large orders at an additional cost.
We encourage the reuse of Paper Waste Panels that have been disassembled in connection with renovation or demolition. Refurbishment or repairs might be necessary, and we can provide the required coating products.
Once the takeback programme is in place, Paper Waste Panels can be 100% recycled in the same loop, not downcycled, to never become waste again. Please get in touch with our experts to get more information about recycling options prior to dismantling.
Keep liquids away from the panels. In the event of a spill or minor stain on the panels, use a moist or dry cloth to wipe away the filth as soon as possible. Allow the product to dry in the open air until no moisture is apparent. Do not use wet mops, wet scrubbers, or steam cleaners.
We do not recommend using any liquids or very wet utensils to clean the products, nor do we recommend using solvents on the products. No wax, polish, oil soap, abrasive cleaners, steel wool, scouring powder, or significant amounts of water should be used. Do not scratch or rub the surface to ensure long-lasting durability.
Please visit our download centre for more technical information
Please visit our download centre to download the installation guidelines of our Paper Waste Panels.
No, you should not install Paper Waste Panels in high-moisture areas or those that often require cleaning. You should avoid areas exposed to liquids.
Paper Waste Panels are designed for interior wall applications. However, there are several methods for ceiling installation, such as directly screwed to the ceiling, screwed to wooden battens and suspended ceiling grid systems. This last option might need reinforcement.
Please visit our download centre for more technical information. This is an ongoing development, and we will update our documents as soon as we have tested this.
Paper Waste Panels are designed for interior wall applications. The unique processing method used to shape the panels – combined with the original properties from our raw materials – brings durable and strong properties to the product. However, it should still be handled with care and not be placed in humid or dirty environments or in areas where it will be exposed to high impact and wear.
It is possible to cut Paper Waste Panels with a circular saw, tiger saw, or similar. Use discs with 96+ teeth and 5000 rpm for best results. The colours do not run through the material, so if you cut the panels, the edges will be exposed, unprotected from humidity, and showing the natural colour of the raw material.
We recommend planning carefully where the cut edges will be placed within the wall design. Both exposed edges and minor damages to the product during installation can be repainted with touch-up paint that we can provide.
Paper Waste Panels are not designed to perform as an acoustic product, although they absorb more sound energy than other common wall materials. The weighted sound absorption coefficient for Paper Waste Panels is 0.15 αw, meaning they absorb 15% of incident sound energy. This ratio is similar to chipboards or soft woods.
For the most up-to-date price range of our products, please have a look at: front-materials.com/pricing
Pretty Plastic is committed to a sustainable future by adhering to the principles of a circular economy, such as eliminating waste and maintaining materials without downcycling. Additionally, they focus on achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9, 12, and 13.
By using recycled PVC, the need for virgin materials is reduced. To our knowledge, Pretty Plastic is the only company using this challenging “raw material” to create circular building products, particularly facade and roof panels. The recycled PVC granules used are sourced from construction waste (e.g., gutters, window frames, pipes), which would otherwise end up in landfill or be used as a base layer in road construction.
Some microplastics may be released during cutting, so it is highly recommended to wear a facemask and collect dust. Once installed, there is minimal microplastic emission, as there is no abrasion between the products, and the panels are neatly assembled in one place.
Pretty Plastic works together with plastic recycling companies in The Netherlands and Belgium. They use PVC waste from demolished buildings, mainly window frames. The PVC waste is collected on building sites and processed into a granule that functions as the raw material for the Pretty Plastic Panels.
Due to the specific requirements of window frames, it’s not possible to make a product 100% consisting of rPVC window frames. Hence Pretty Plastic purchases rPVC, originating from demolished buildings.
During the production of Pretty Plastic Panels, little to no waste is generated. All panels that do not meet our standards, the protrusions and most of the rinsing material can be reused again as raw material for the production of a new panel.
The shredder, which prepares waste materials for a new production process, is also located at our production facility. The small amount of actual waste (thermally overheated) is treated as industrial waste and used to generate energy and heat during incineration.
Pretty Plastic Panels come with a 10-year warranty, and their lifespan ranges up to 75 years. All Pretty Plastic Panels are detachable and can be reused. Please note that the 10-year warranty is on the product, not the installation.
The founders of Pretty Plastic are deeply committed to circular design. Every product we create is focused on a direct diminishing of PVC waste by transforming it into beautiful new building materials, with an impressive circular waste index of 99.3%.
Yes, Pretty Plastic Panels have undergone an LCA, and the ‘First One’ panel has achieved EPD certification.
The panel has been included in the Dutch Nationale Milieudatabase (NMD, National Environmental Database) in Category 1, being the first building material in this group made of 100% recycled PVC.
Carbon emissions were calculated for the ‘First One’ Pretty Plastic Panel through an LCA. From the analysis, it results that the total global warming potential (GWP) per square meter is 40 kg CO₂ equivalent.
Note that this is a trade-off derived from specific design choices, as with these panels, the aim is to recycle as much PVC as possible into new building materials. A much lower GWP is expected for the ‘Second High’ and ‘Basic Third’ panels as the number of panels per square metre is significantly reduced (from 22 to 9 and 6).
The Pretty Plastic Panels are packaged on wooden pallets, wrapped in recycled plastic film and strips. The tiles are packaged per m² and labelled with colour codes. Currently alternative packaging materials and methods are discussed to ensure the most sustainable option without compromising on the quality of panels during transport.
Water is used for cooling the panels after the material has been injected into the mould. This water does not come in contact with the plastic, and thus no substances can leak into the water.
The water that is used to cool the product is used for all systems in the factory’s premises (closed system), so that limited to no water is wasted.
The energy needed to produce 1 m² of Pretty Plastic’s ‘First One’ Panel is about 11 kWh. This is about 0.50 kWh per panel. The Pretty Plastic Panels are produced using green electricity produced from resources such as solar, wind, geothermal and biomass.
Yes, Pretty Plastic Panels have CE approval.
The U-value is not relevant for this non-insulating product.
The product itself is airtight, but the ventilated facade system ensures breathability for insulation materials.
The panels are good insulators but are typically installed on open (ventilated) facades, so the thermal properties are not relevant.
Yes, the panels can be recycled up to eight times, and Pretty Plastic offers a return policy for unused panels. Apart from this, all panels are detachable and can easily be reused for new projects.
Yes, Pretty Plastic Panels have an EPD for the ‘First One’ panel, which can be downloaded from our website.
Please note that the aim of the ‘First One’ panel is to recycle as much PVC as possible into new building material. This results in a higher product weight per functional unit.
This design choice is reflected in the LCA and EPD results.
The panel has also been included in the Dutch ‘Nationale Milieudatabase’ (NMD, National Environmental Database) in Category 1, making it the first building material in this group to be made from 100% recycled PVC.
No, Pretty Plastic Panels are sold per m², not per individual panel. The minimal order quantity is 50 m².
Pretty Plastic Panels are fabricated at JPI Polymers BV in the Netherlands. As both FRONT® and Pretty Plastic are also located in the Netherlands, it makes it really easy to control the quality of the product before we send it out.
Pretty Plastic Panels can be ordered in four different colours: grey, green, terracotta, and ochre. Each colour comes in three different shades: light, medium and dark. Please note, due to the nature of rPVC, each tile is different, and slight colour differences might occur.
Pretty Plastic Panels plans to implement a system to retrieve and recycle used panels back into the system.
Pretty Plastic Panels will naturally patinate over time under UV exposure (similar to all other PVC) without losing technical performance. UV has the same natural effect on the panels as on wooden cladding.
The recycled PVC used in the production of the panels comes from building material which already contains stabilisers. Neither the colour nor the technical performance of Pretty Plastic Panels is affected by exposure to sunlight. Lighter colours might have a bit more diminished glare after about 10 years, as is the case with plastic window frames.
Certified data is currently limited to discolouration, but Pretty Plastic Panels are being researched for UV degradation, and more information will be available in the future.
Pretty Plastic Panels are made from 100% recycled PVC, primarily sourced from Post-Consumer (PCR) waste such as window frames, gutters, and downspouts. This PVC is washed, shredded, and made into granules before being delivered to our production facility in the Netherlands.
Panels are also made from post-industrial waste generated at our own production site. All pre-consumer waste during production is shredded and reused to manufacture new panels.
Regular PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a common, strong but lightweight plastic used in many building materials. It is softened and made more flexible by the addition of plasticisers. If no plasticisers are added, it is known as uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride), rigid PVC, or vinyl siding in the United States. The recyclate used by Pretty Plastic is regular PVC, supplied by several plastic recycling companies in both the Netherlands and Belgium.
Pretty Plastic Panels are very easy to install. Any builder can install Pretty Plastic Panels, as application is similar to installing standard roof tiles. For large-scale projects, specialised facade cladding companies are recommended. Have a look in the dedicated installation manual for instructions.
Visit our download centre >
The panels are easy to cut on-site by one person. Any saw can be used for cutting. It is, however, important to collect sawdust to prevent the release of microplastics.
The cutting edge is tight and neat, often covered by a corner profile or profiles around window frames to prevent water infiltration. In the installation manual you can find a picture of the cutting edge.
For applications on the first level, it is highly recommended to protect the cut edges with a(n aluminium) profile to prevent impact damage. Otherwise, no additional protection is needed.
Cutting loss depends on the design layout, but a calculation of 10% cutting loss is recommended for projects > 100m². For smaller projects, a cutting loss calculation of 5% is recommended.
Pretty Plastic Panels are maintenance-free and can be cleaned with water or any cleaning agent suitable for hard PVC products.
Yes, the Pretty Plastic Panel ‘First One’ and ‘Basic Third’ interlock by overlapping each other from the bottom to the top. The ‘Second High’ panel has a fixed framework with installation joints.
The panels overlap and are not completely flat when attached to prevent moisture from getting behind the facade. Please consult the installation manual to see all details.
Dedicated manuals are available for each type of Pretty Plastic Panel to ensure secure installation. The process is straightforward, and certified construction reports are provided for each panel. Be sure to follow the provided installation instructions and use the specified screws as indicated. Both the recommended screws and underlying slat structures are readily available.
Pretty Plastic Panels are not intended to be painted to maintain their sustainability. Painting would reduce the ability to recycle them fully. Unpainted, Pretty Plastic Panels can be recycled up to 8 times.
Yes, the Pretty Plastic Panels ‘First One’ and ‘Basic Third’ are suitable for both facades and roof cladding.
Yes, Pretty Plastic Panels are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
No, Pretty Plastic Panels do not include corner caps, and there are no dedicated corner panels. Recommended corner solutions can be found in the installation manuals, available for download. If needed, Pretty Plastic experts are available to design custom corner solutions.
Installation typically adds 50-60% to the m² price in The Netherlands, though it can vary locally. Please check your local contractor for pricing in your own country.
Pretty Plastic Panels are sold at a standard price of €120 per m² for traders, contractors, and project developers. We rarely supply to private individuals, which is why we do not have separate pricing.
Pretty Plastic’s HS code is 39189000. More details on duty for the US can be found here.
Pretty Plastic Panels have a Class B-S3-d0 fire rating and certified engineering reports, suitable for buildings up to 45 metres. This is the highest possible rating for recycled materials without any additional substrates.
For taller buildings, an A2 fire class certification can be achieved based on the entire facade composition, including interior walls and insulation layers.
PVC softens at high temperatures, around 70-90 degrees Celsius, and it has the property of returning to form afterward.
Pretty Plastic Panels can be used on buildings up to 45 metres. For heights above 45 metres, dedicated construction and fire safety reports are required.
The necessary A2 fire certification for high-rises can be achieved based on the entire facade composition, including interior walls and insulation layers.
Biobased materials have a double advantage: they sequester atmospheric CO₂ (originally released through the burning of fossil sources) for decades and reduce the amount of fossil carbon pumped up to produce conventional materials.
A material can be made primarily from organic components (“biobased”), but that doesn’t automatically mean the product is also biodegradable. Conversely, a material can be synthetic but still biodegradable.
The product has an organic content of less than 1% and is therefore classified as class A1 in accordance with EN 13501-1 and Delegated Regulation 2016/364.
Mimmik Tile falls under Fire Class A1 in accordance with EN 13501-1, the highest classification for fire performance in construction materials. This means the tiles are non-combustible and do not contribute to fire at any stage.
Mimmik Tiles (under the previous name BioBasedTiles) have been added to the SundaHus Material Data system with an A-rating. SundaHus Material Data is the market leader for environmentally conscious material choices in the construction and property markets in Sweden.
To read more about the specific assessment criteria, please download this document by SundaHus Material Data.
Mimmik Tiles are also listed in the Nordic Swan Ecolabel’s Building Materials Database.
The Building Materials Database, shared with all Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden), is used by building producers to find products that are accepted by Nordic Ecolabelling. Read more.
Mimmik Tile has an R12 rating with a Pendulum Test Value and Slip Resistance Value rating beyond 50.
Due to the nature of the material and the production process, ceramic brick is subject to dimensional tolerances and a certain range.
In the case of WasteBasedBricks, this is specified as T2/R1.
Dimensional tolerance (T1, T2 or Tm)
In practice, the designer often bases the dimensions on the average theoretical dimensions of a standard masonry brick format. However, the dimensions used by an individual manufacturer can greatly differ from this. Each manufacturer can give its interpretation of the average size of a standard format and the associated dimensional tolerances (T). So standard dimensions do not exist in masonry bricks. This deviation is defined in the classes T1, T2 or Tm.
The starting points are the length, width and height as stated on the CE specification of the brick. The average size of the bricks must fall within the specified tolerances.
Measure spread (R1, R2 or Rm)
After determining the average sizes, the size spread can be calculated. The size difference between the smallest and largest brick in a batch (ten bricks are randomly drawn from a batch) must not exceed the specified size range.
WasteBasedBricks are all delivered within the T2/R1 standard. The dimensions of bricks and brick slips are the result of the average dimensions of the chosen brick and the dimensions of the joint. In the case of a tile or herringbone bond or a joint smaller than 10 mm, you want to consider the effects of the tolerances on the design.
Please check our download centre for technical documentation and application guidelines.
At the moment we don’t offer custom options. Future expansion of the collection will be announced on our website and via our newsletter.
You can download our sustainability document from our Download Centre.
The datasheet / NEN specification we publish in our download centre is an indication of the technical specs of the brick type. It includes data such as water absorption percentage and compressive strength. If your project requires technical specifications that are not listed, please contact our team.
The WasteBasedBrick is a building material that includes waste from construction, demolition and industry. It is an intrinsic property of the WasteBasedBrick that, due to the nature of the used materials and means of production, the products contain a certain colour variation.
Samples of products you’ve received before placing the order are type samples and give an indication of the colour and texture. The actual aesthetical properties of the WasteBasedBricks will be confirmed with a production sample selected from the batch.
Naturally occurring bacteria are used to produce Mimmik Tile, a non-modified bacterium described as a wild-type strain. The non-pathogenic strain was isolated from a species commonly found in global natural environments.
These bacteria typically create cemented materials over hundreds or thousands of years, but the binding process enables them to do the same work in days.
The short answer is no, not yet.
The factory that is producing Mimmik Tile on a large scale is located in Denmark. The Biomason EPD team is working closely together with the engineers in Denmark to calculate the environmental profile of the actual product made over here.
To prevent the circulation of multiple EPDs of the Mimmik Tile, we will be waiting for the new publication which represents the commercial product we are selling. As soon as the data is available, we’ll inform our clients via our website and newsletter.
The size of the Mimmik Tile does not change from the time it is formed in production. During production, they increase in density. The “growing” happens as biologically produced calcium carbonate forms bridges between the aggregate grains, strengthening the unit from within. Mimmik Tiles do not warp during production.
The primary component of traditional concrete is Portland cement. Portland cement is manufactured from crushed limestone (calcium carbonate). There are two main stages in the manufacturing of Portland cement.
The first stage, calcination, requires heating limestone to temperatures greater than 800 degrees Celsius (~1,500 F), resulting in calcium oxide and carbon dioxide gas.
The second stage, clinker formation, combines calcium oxide with silicates at furnace temperatures greater than 1,300 degrees Celsius (~2,400 F).
Manufacturing 1 KG of Portland cement releases approximately 1 KG of carbon dioxide into the environment. Half of this comes from the calcination of the limestone and the other half from the combustion of fossil fuels necessary to achieve the required kiln temperatures. Additional atmospheric byproducts of Portland cement production include dioxin, NOx, SO₂, and particulates.
Bacteria are everywhere in the world around us. Generally speaking, they need two things to survive: nutrients and moisture. Mimmik Tile does retain trace bacteria from the growth process. However, these exist in a dormant state and require conditions beyond those commonly found in the built environment to become active.
It takes less than 72 hours for our Mimmik Tiles to reach full cure strength, and this is continuously improving through Biomason’s rapid research and development. As a note, traditional concrete can take up to 28 days to cure!
No, we don’t take on any design projects right now. We do clad counters with our materials if they are part of a larger interior project.
If you design an object built from bricks and it exceeds our minimum order quantity of 200 m² for interior projects within Europe (including the United Kingdom) or 1000 m² in the United States or Middle East, we can talk through your design idea. Please, contact our sales team.
Yes, our products can be combined with insulation panels made for ceramic brick slips. Contact our sales team for references.
We deliver our products to Europe (including the United Kingdom) and North America.
Deliveries to Asia, South America, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand don’t fit our current sustainable approach. We want to work with regional waste streams on all continents in the future, so stay tuned for the latest updates!
In principle, we do not use any pigments. However, we aim to compose the WasteBasedBrick recipes in such a way that they result in an attractive product. Pigments could be added to manipulate certain colours. The firing curve of the products also has a significant effect on the colour. We primarily aim to use waste-base pigments.
An Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is an independently verified and registered document that communicates transparent and comparable information about the life-cycle environmental impact of products in a credible way.
You can download the EPD in our download centre.
We deliver our products under the general terms and conditions of the Royal Association of Dutch Brick Manufacturers (‘Vereniging Koninklijke Nederlandse Bouwkeramiek‘ – KNB). This involves a 10-year warranty on frost resistance. This is in line with most producers of ceramic materials in the Netherlands.
All our products go through the standard market tests for bricks and are safe to use according to European standards. Learn how our WasteBasedBricks are made.
Our products have the properties to last more than 100 years. Unfortunately, most buildings these days are being demolished much sooner than that.
The good news is that WasteBasedBricks can be recycled and used as ingredients for new WasteBasedBricks. You can download the EPD in our download centre.
This depends on the calculation method you use. In preliminary research from an external agency, a 25% reduction in environmental cost indicators was reported with fully scaled-up production. In general, the WasteBasedBrick, in line with other bricks, is sustainable because of its longevity (70+ years).
With the WasteBasedBrick, we focus primarily on waste as a resource instead of digging up natural and limited resources. To decrease the CO₂ footprint of the brick even further, we are testing more efficient firing curves.
All our waste streams are tested on quality and consistency and comply with government regulations. Learn how our WasteBasedBricks are made.
We are already able to make bricks from 100% waste. Yet, the machines we currently use at our factory aren’t able to process them. This will remain our focus for the coming years. Our mission stands: creating building materials from 100% upcycled waste with a positive carbon impact on the planet.
We use demolition waste, industrial waste and by-products from several production and recycling processes. Learn how our WasteBasedBricks are made.
It depends on the production location and products. Our waste mostly comes from the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and England. Learn how our WasteBasedBricks are made.
We work with carefully selected partners and don’t have the ambition to expand the number of partners right now.
We are running a few pilot projects in the Netherlands to test the complete process of returning waste from a donor building to the project for the first time. Visit our project page to find out more.
Yes, we certainly do. Please request our Digital Sample Pack.
Yes, many! Feel free to download our press kit for high-resolution images. Or reach out to our sales team. They are happy to help you create the best presentation of our products possible.
On our events page, we post regular (online) workshops and webinars that are free to attend. For larger organisations, we also offer tailor-made presentations. Click here to find out more.
Due to limited resources, our team is not available for student interviews. Please check our website for detailed information about our mission, products, projects and production process. Our press kit features high-resolution images and videos.
We are always dedicated to finding talented, motivated people to join our team. For all current internship possibilities, please look at our careers page and sign up for our newsletter to stay updated with any available positions.
Due to limited resources and to prevent waste, we only send samples for planned projects. We would, however, love to give you access to our digital sample tool. With this free visualiser, you can create high-quality textures for construction drawings and 3D models.
In our Press Kit, you can find high-resolution images and videos and for detailed information on our products, please see our How it’s Made and Downloads page.
At FRONT, we aim to advance the development, use and reuse of planet-friendly aesthetic building materials. If your technology or material helps us accelerate our mission, we’re interested in talking further.
We collaborate in technical development, aesthetic development, commercialisation and investments. Get in touch.
We receive many requests for custom product collaborations with FRONT. We’ve made it a rule that we only set up new partnerships if there’s a commercial project involved where this new product will be implemented. Please find out more about our custom-made service.
No. All sales are handled by our skilled account managers from Amsterdam. We organise annual roadshows to cities like London, New York, and Copenhagen. Subscribe to our newsletter to find out when we will be around.
This depends on your assortment, network and location. Reach out to our sales department with a short profile of your company, and we will get back to you.
Our office is not a showroom, and we share our office with other creative companies. Visiting our office is only possible by making an appointment with our sales team.
Not at the moment. Currently, we work mainly business-to-business and handle all sales ourselves. This way, we are certain you get all the complete information on time. We only produce our building materials on a project basis. Read more about how our products are made.
To keep things cost-effective and environmentally friendly, we have the following minimum order quantities:
For all projects using our Custom Made Service, there is a minimum order quantity of 1000 m².
Our WasteBasedBricks are produced per project according to traditional production methods and with attention to quality and aesthetics. All prices depend on the product type, shape, size and quantity of your order. Get a price indication.
For the most up-to-date price range of our products, please have a look at our pricing page.
This depends on what product you compare them with. In general, the WasteBasedBricks are priced in the middel range of bricks. But in terms of quality and aesthetics, they score high! When it comes to the segment of non-standard sizes, colours and textures (for example, long formats, moulded bricks, and thick formats), we can compete with suppliers of conventional products.
Our products are successfully applied in projects focusing on sustainability and design with a matching budget. For the most up-to-date price range of our products, please have a look at our pricing page or request a price indication.
This depends on the type of product you are looking for. Based on the information communicated in the sample request form, we’ll prepare a proposal for you, send samples, get into the specifics of your project and confirm the order, start production, and deliver on-site.
During and after the construction of your project, we’ll check in a few times to see how things are going. Get in touch with questions you might still have.
This depends on the product you choose and the quantity of the order. In general, delivery takes 26+ weeks. This can go up to a year for projects exceeding 1000 m². Contact our sales team to find out what the lead time on your project will be.
It’s always a challenge to capture the tactility and colour of products in photos, especially when made under different light circumstances. That can be one of the reasons the products look different online.
Another reason is that we constantly optimise our product recipes and production methods. This will lead to different colours and sometimes textures over time. That is why we recommend requesting a new sample on the products page.
This depends on where you are located and the type of factory you have. Please give us a call, and let’s explore what we can do together.
Not yet, unfortunately. We only work with larger, specific and well-separated quantities of waste for our sustainable building materials. This allows us to test the quality and consistency to comply with government regulations in The Netherlands. Please bring your well-separated construction waste to your local recycling facility to give it a second life.
There are no results for your question (yet); we’ll look into it and have the answer here soon!
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