Congratulation on the purchase of your ASCALE surfaces. ASCALE is a sintered porcelain surface manufactured from 100% all natural minerals. These natural minerals are sintered under extreme heat and pressure. Creating an all-natural product with qualities not found in other stone surfaces.

Thanks to ASCALE’s many technical advantages care and maintenance is easily achieved

Interior Walls

Daily Care

Wet walls (showers & tubs) :

The daily use of a glass squeegee to remove excess water on wet walls will prevent hard water build from occurring. Should mineral deposits or hard water build up occur. The use of any shelf brand cleaner meant to remove these build ups should be applied per the products manufactures instructions.

Interior non-wet walls :

Routine dusting of interior vertical walls with a light duster or mop is recommended.

Maintenance Cleaning

Not much is needed to retain the beauty of your ASCALE Surface. But if a maintenance cleaning is required. The use of any residential or light commercial based cleaner will do the trick. Apply and use your selected cleaner per manufactures instruction. Making sure to thoughrly rinse the surface of any excess cleaner.

For stubborn marks the use of a diluted alkaline cleaner with a Mr. Clean Magic eraser or similar product may be used.

Sealing

Your ASCALE Surfaces requires no sealing. Just routine care and maintenance.

Agitation Brushes

ASCALE is a highly scratch resistant surface. The use of manual agitation brushes & pads to clean stubborn build ups will not damage the surface finish of your ASCALE. But “NO” mechanical agitation systems should ever be used. Do Not use any ceramic based brushes or tools to remove any build up on your ASCALE Surface, as ceramic based tools will cause damage.

Vanities and Counters

Daily Care

Use of a microfiber cloth to remove dust or dirt build up is recommended. Warm soap and water can be used for daily cleaning or a preferred daily surface cleaner. Avoiding cleaners with wax or polishing agents.

Maintenance Cleaning

Not much is needed to retain the beauty of your ASCALE Surface. But if a maintenance cleaning is required. The use of any residential or light commercial surface cleaner will do the trick. Apply and use your selected cleaner per manufactures instructions. For stubborn marks and spills the use of a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser (or similar product) with your selected cleaner may be used. Multiple passed may be required to thoughrly remove certain stubborn marks.

Sealing

ASCALE Surface requires no sealing. Just routine care and maintenance.

Heat Exposure

ASCALE Surface is a highly burn and scorch resistant surface. Accidentally leaving items such as curly irons, hot pots and heating pads directly on your stone for a longer period of time, will not damage your ASCALE Surface. But like any surface care should be taken not to abuse the product as to cause intentional damage.

Agitation Brushes

ASCALE is a highly scratch resistant surface. The use of manual agitation brushes to clean stubborn build ups will not damage the surface finish of your ASCALE Surface. But “NO” mechanical agitation systems should ever be used. Do Not use any ceramic based brushes or tools to remove any build up on your ASCALE Surface, as this will cause damage.

NOTE:

Avoid cleaners with wax, polishing or sealing additives as they could leave a greasy film on your ASCALE Surface.

Warning:

Avoid exposing your ASCALE Surface to Hydrofluoric acids or chemicals containing Hydrofluoric acids. Avoid extreme manual or mechanical impacts on your ASCALE Surface, such as hammering which will cause damage. Do Not stand on your ASCALE Surface tops. Do Not use ceramic knives or tooling on your ASCALE Surface.

*Measurements on a 60x60cm sample

**Measurements on a 25x50cm sample

OTHER TESTS / OTROS ENSAYOS

1. IDENTIFICATION OF THE SUBSTANCE/MIXTURE AND OF THE COMPANY/UNDERTAKING

1.1 Product identifier

2. HAZARDS IDENTIFICATION

2.1 Classification of the substance

Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008 (CLP)
Hazard classes/Hazard categories	Hazard statement
None	None

EC Directives Nos. 67/548, 99/45 and subsequent amendments
Hazard characteristics	R-phrases
None	None

2.2 Label elements

Labelling according to Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008 CLP

Labelling in compliance with Directive 1999/45/EC

2.3 Other hazards

Health risks: Porcelain stoneware slabs do not emit hazardous substances after installation: during the firing process stable chemical compounds are formed, and therefore porcelain stoneware slabs are not considered hazardous for the health.

During activities such as cutting, polishing, perforation, etc., of porcelain stoneware slabs, dust containing crystalline silica may be formed.

Inhaling this type of dust is hazardous for the health and must be avoided.

Prevent dispersion/inhaling of dust by means of suction systems or personal protection devices.

Repeated exposure, prolonged over time and/or massive inhaling of the breathable fraction may have an effect on the lungs causing fibrosis (silicosis).

Prolonged exposure over time to the finer fraction suspended in air may cause irritation of the cornea.

The glass fibre fabric applied is not “breathable” (i.e. cannot be inhaled and penetrate into the lungs)

The following risks have been identified:

- Temporary irritation (itching) of a purely mechanical nature, affecting the skin, eyes and upper respiratory tract.

- Allergies in very rare cases.

- In processes with high probability of dust generation, formation of non-breathable fibrous particles and nonfibrous dust ( broken pieces of different sizes) that is inhalable (can be breathed into the upper respiratory tract).

Safety hazards: The product does not present hazards for safety if used in compliance with the normal precautions for use

Environmental hazards: Not classified as hazardous for the environment

3. COMPOSITION/INFORMATION ON INGREDIENTS

Product identification: Porcelain stoneware slabs comprise a mixture composed mainly of natural clays and other natural mineral substances.

The mixture is created with natural raw materials, with humidity and appropriate granulometric distribution for the subsequent pressing stage.

After mixing with water and pressing of the tile, it is fired at high temperatures.

During the firing process a particularly stable crystalline structure is formed, which incorporates the individual chemical elements.

The main components of the ceramic mixture are silicon oxides and aluminium oxides; in addition, it contains small percentages of the following substances: sodium oxides, manganese oxides, iron oxides, magnesium oxides, potassium oxides and barium oxides.

Chemical composition: SiO2 67-70% (crystalline silica 15-25%), Al2O3 18-20%; Fe2O3 < 1%, TiO2 < 1%, CaO < 2%, MgO < 1%, Na2O < 5%, K2O < 5%, ZrO2 < 2%

The glass fibre is produced with Class E glass.

E-Glass (CAS 65997-17-3) is glass with a low alkaline content. Its composition (expressed in oxides) is below the following percentages:

SiO2 56-62%; Alkaline Oxides (Na2O, K2O) < 2%; Alkaline earth oxides (CaO, MgO) 16-30%; B2O3 0-10%; Al2O3 11-16%; TiO2 0-3%; Fe2O3 0-1%; HF 0-2%

The sizing is a mixture of chemical components applied to glass filaments. It is usually in an amount less than 1%, mainly comprising non-reactive polymers with high molecular weight, often natural ingredients (starches) without reagents.

Hazardous components: None

Mineralogical composition: mixture of raw materials and natural minerals (clays, feldspars, quartz).

4. FIRST AID MEASURES

NB: this section applies exclusively to activities of cutting, polishing, etc.

4.1 Description of first aid measures

Skin contact: Rinse, and subsequently wash the skin with water and soap.

Eye contact: Wash the eyes for several minutes using copious amounts of water, keeping eyelids open.

Ingestion: In the unlikely event that ingestion takes place, have the subject drink water.

Inhalation: Remove the subject from the area of exposure and have the subject breathe fresh air.

4.2 Most important symptoms and effects, both acute and delayed

Irritation of the respiratory tract.

Eye irritation.

In the case of persistent irritation consult a doctor.

4.3 Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.

In the case of accident or illness consult a doctor immediately and if possible show this safety data sheet.

5. FIREFIGHTING MEASURES

5.1 Extinguishing media:

Suitable extinguishing media: Water, CO2, chemical dust, foam, sand or inert gases.

Unsuitable extinguishing media that must not be used for safety reasons: None

5.2 Special hazards arising from the substance or mixture

The ceramic part is NON COMBUSTIBLE and does not create gases or other hazardous elements in the case of fire. The adhesive used for the fibreglass backing may cause hazardous fumes in the case of fire.

The fibreglass applied is non-flammable.

5.3 Advice for firefighters

None in particular

6. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES

NB: this section applies exclusively to activities of cutting, polishing, etc

6.1 Personal precautions, protective equipment and emergency procedures

In the case of prolonged exposure or a high level of suspended dust, wear personal protection devices for the respiratory tract.

6.2 Environmental precautions

If appropriate dampen the material to limit dust dispersion.

6.3 Methods and material for containment and cleaning up

Collect the mixture with suction or other mechanical means.

Place the mixture in covered containers.

6.4 Reference to other sections

See also Sections 8 and 13

7. HANDLING AND STORAGE

7.1 Precautions for safe handling

No special precautions are required for handling and laying the tiles, except for the normal PPDs in use for the work activities (gloves, safety shoes).

For cutting, polishing etc. activities safety glasses and respiratory tract protection devices are also necessary. Wet- cutting systems are preferable to dry-cutting.

7.2 Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities

No particular precautions are required.

7.3 Specific end uses:

No specific technical measures or particular precautions are required.

8. EXPOSURE CONTROL/PERSONAL PROTECTION

8.1 Control parameters

NB: this section applies exclusively to activities of cutting, polishing, etc

Occupational exposure limits

Free crystalline silica SiO2 = 0.05 mg/Nm3 (European Network on Silica limit NEPSIO2); 0.100 mg / Nm3 (Directive (EU) 2017/2398 of the European Parliament and of the Council, of 12 December 2017, implemented in Italy by Legislative Decree 44/2020 of 01/06/2020)

Dust – breathable fraction = 3 mg/Nm3 (European Network on Silica limit NEPSIO2)

Inhalable dust = 10 mg/Nm3

Biological exposure index (BEI): No attribution of biological limits

8.2 Exposure controls

8.2.1 General information

Wash hands after work and before breaks

Do not eat or drink during handling of the mixture

8.2.2 Occupational exposure controls

8.2.3 Environmental exposure controls

Provide appropriate suction and filtering at the points where the mixture may be dispersed into the environment since it can release inhalable, breathable dust.

9. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

9.1 Information on basic physical and chemical properties

Appearance: solid

Odour: odourless

pH: not applicable

Melting point/range: > 1300°C

Boiling point/range: not applicable

Flash point: not applicable

Flammability: non-flammable

Oxidising properties: non-oxidising

Explosive properties: non-explosive

Density: 2.4-2.5 g/cm3

Water solubility: insoluble.

9.2 Other information

Not applicable.

10. STABILITY AND REACTIVITY

10.1 Reactivity

The mixture is NON REACTIVE in normal conditions of use.

10.2 Chemical stability

The mixture is STABLE in normal conditions of use.

10.3 Possibility of hazardous reactions

The mixture DOES NOT CAUSE HAZARDOUS REACTIONS in normal conditions of use

10.4 Conditions to avoid

The mixture is STABLE in normal conditions of use

10.5 Incompatible materials

No particular incompatibility.

10.6 Decomposition products

The formation of hazardous decomposition products is not expected in normal conditions of storage and use.

11. TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION

NB: this section applies exclusively to activities of cutting, polishing, etc

Information on toxicological effects

Repeated exposure, prolonged over time and/or a massive inhalation of the breathable fraction of dust containing quartz may cause pulmonary fibrosis (silicosis) due to the action of free crystalline silica particles on lung tissue

NOT TOXIC article, considered as physiologically non-hazardous.

Bases for assessment: The information supplied is based on product data, on knowledge of the components and on the toxicology of similar products.

Probable ways of exposure: Inhalation is the primary way of exposure.

Acute toxicity, by oral route: Not applicable

Acute toxicity, by dermal route: Not applicable.

Acute toxicity, by inhalation: Not applicable.

Skin corrosion/irritation: Not irritant for the skin.

Serious eye damage/irritation: May cause mechanical irritation for the eyes.

Respiratory tract irritation: Inhalation of dust may cause irritation to the respiratory tract.

Sensitisation to the respiratory tract or skin: Data unavailable

Germ cell mutagenicity: Data unavailable.

Carcinogenicity: Data unavailable.

Reproductive and developmental toxicity: Data unavailable.

Specific target organ toxicity – single exposure: Data unavailable

Specific target organ toxicity – repeated exposure: Data unavailable.

Other information: In 1997, the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) concluded that crystalline silica inhaled from occupational sources may cause lung cancer in human beings. However it stressed that not all industrial situations and not all types of crystalline silica were incriminated. (IARC Monographs on the evaluation of the carcinogenic risks of chemical to humans, Silica, silicates dust and organic fibres, 1997, Vol. 68, IARC, Lyon, France and IARC MONOGRAPH 100 OF 2009).

In June 2003, SCOEL (the European “Scientific Committee on Occupational Exposure Limits”) concluded that the main effect on humans through inhalation of breathable crystalline silica dust is silicosis. “There is sufficient information to conclude that the related risk of lung cancer is higher in people with silicosis (and, apparently, not in workers not affected by silicosis who are exposed to silica in quarries and in ceramics industries). So preventing the occurrence of silicosis also reduces the risk of cancer…” (SCOEL SUM Doc 94-final, June 2003)

There is evidence to support the theory that the increase in the risk of cancer would be limited to people already suffering from silicosis. The protection of workers against silicosis should be guaranteed by compliance with prevailing regulations on the Limit of Occupational Exposure and when necessary, in the presence of additional risks, implemented by directives (see Section 16).

12. ECOLOGICAL INFORMATION

12.1 Toxicity

NOT TOXIC article.

Use the product according to good working practices, avoiding dispersion in the environment.

12.2 Persistence and degradability

NOT BIODEGRADABLE article.

12.3 Bioaccumulative potential

Not considered significantly bioaccumulative.

12.4 Mobility in soil

The mixture is not significantly soluble.

12.5 Result of PBT and vPvB assessment

There are no risks of persistence, bioaccumulation and toxicity in the substance, and therefore it is not considered PBT or vPvB.

12.6 Other adverse effects

No data available.

13. DISPOSAL CONSIDERATIONS

13.1 Waste treatment methods

Disposal methods:

The product is deemed to be inert waste

Disposal must be carried out in compliance with the instructions laid down by Italian Legislative Decree 152/2006 and subsequent modifications and integrations and with the instructions laid down by regional authorities.

The waste producer is responsible for determining the toxicity and the physical properties of the material generated to identify the appropriate classification of the waste and the disposal methods in compliance with prevailing regulations.

The waste must be disposed of in compliance with prevailing laws, using an authorised waste disposal facility, The competence of the disposal facility must be verified in advance.

For handling and measures in the case of accidental dispersion of the waste, the instructions given in Sections 6 and 7 generally apply.

Do not disperse in the environment, in wells or water courses.

Disposal of packing material: Any paper and plastic packing materials are recyclable.

Disposal of packing materials must be carried out after they have been completely emptied.

Do not pollute the soil, water or the environment with the container for waste.

14. TRANSPORT INFORMATION

NOT HAZARDOUS mixture according to transport regulations

Transport by road/rail (ADR/RID):

NOT HAZARDOUS mixture according to road and rail transport regulations.

Transport by sea (IMDG code):

NOT HAZARDOUS mixture according to sea transport regulations.

Transport by air (ICAO/IATA):

NOT HAZARDOUS mixture according to air transport regulations.

15. REGULATORY INFORMATION

15.1 Safety, health and environmental regulations/legislation specific for the substance or mixture.

Classification, packaging and labelling of hazardous substances (Italian Legislative Decree 52/1997 and subsequent modifications).

Classification, packaging and labelling of hazardous mixtures (Italian Legislative Decree 65/2003).

Safeguarding of health and safety in the workplace (Italian Legislative Decree 81/2008 and subsequent modifications).

15.2 Chemical safety assessment

No chemical safety assessment has been conducted

16. OTHER INFORMATION

Liability: The information shown in this basic safety sheet has been drawn up to the best of current knowledge and on the basis of information sources currently available.

The user must comply with prevailing regulations and be satisfied as to the updating, suitability and completeness of the information contained here, as it relates to the specific use made of the substance in their own production cycle.

The information constitutes a description of the product in relation to safety and draws the attention of users to possible risks connected with an improper use of the product.

R- Phrases: None

CLP Hazard statements: None.

Uses identified according to the system describing use

Recommended restrictions relating to use (advised against): This product must not be used in applications different from those recommended in Section 1, without prior advice from the supplier.

Additional information: This document contains important information regarding safety in storage, handling and use of the product.

The information shown in this document must be brought to the attention of the person in your organisation who is responsible for hygiene and safety in the work environments.

Distribution of SDS: The information contained in this document must be made available to all those who handle the product.

Further information:

Training: Workers must be informed about the presence of crystalline silica and trained in the proper use and handling of this product as required by prevailing regulations.

Breathable crystalline silica – Social dialogue agreement; a multi-sector social dialogue on “Workers Health Protection through the Good Handling and Use of Crystalline Silica and Products containing it” was signed on 25th April 2006.

This autonomous agreement, which receives financial support from the European Commission, is based on a Good Practice Guide.

The agreement is operational from 25th October 2006. The agreement was published in the Official Journal of the European Union) 2006/C 279/02.

The text of the agreement and its annexes, including the Good Practice Guide, are available at http://www.nepsi.eu which also supplies useful information and a guide for handling products containing breathable crystalline silica.

15-year Residential Countertop Limited Warranty

TAU CERAMICA SOLUTIONS, S.L.U., manufacture of the brand ASCALE by TAU, hereinafter, TAU, warrants to the original end user/buyer. That its ASCALE 12mm surfaces used for the purpose of a residential countertop installation will be free of manufacturing defects for a period of 15 yrs. from the date of original purchase. The end user/buyer must register their ASCALE 12mm countertop with TAU, within 30 calendars of original purchase to obtain coverage under this 15 yr. Residential Limited Warranty. Furthermore by registering the ASCALE 12mm countertop with TAU the end user/buyer agrees to be bound by the terms and details of this warranty document.

Coverage:

TAU, will replace a defective ASCALE 12mm product for a period of up to 15 years, with the same color, type and finish installed during the original purchase. In the event that the defective product is discontinued or unavailable at the time of replacement, TAU, will supply an ASCALE product of similar color, type and finish as an equal substitute. This warranty is solely for the replacement value of the ASCALE product installed and not inclusive of fabrication, installation, replacement or loss of use costs. NO commercial installations are covered under this warranty.

Product Registration:

The End user / Buyer must register their ASCALE 12mm countertop with TAU, no more than 30 calendar days from the final date of installation, to obtain coverage under this warranty. Product registration must be made online at www.ascale.es under the WARRANTY / CLAIMS section. A copy of the final installation invoice must be submitted at time of registration. The invoice must clearly identify the purchase date, payment in full confirmation as well as the commercial establishment name and contact information where the product was purchased from. Failure to provide the required registration information will null and void the registration and warranty.

Claims:

To file a claim under this warranty. The end user/buyer must submit a claim request to TAU online at www.ascale.es under the WARRANTY / CLAIMS section. The ASCALE counter top must be paid in full to the local supplier and an original proof of purchase must be submitted at time of claim. TAU at its sole discretion may elect to request additional information regarding the claim request. Failure to provide any requested or noted information will null and void the claim. TAU will review the claim and contact the end user/buyer via email or telephone call to discuss the claim. TAU at its discretion will take the necessary steps to inspect the ASCALE surface being claimed. After inspection TAU will make a final binding determination on the claim being made. And either issue a replacement of the ASCALE material or deny the claim with a written explanation.

Residential Limited Warranty Exclusions

No other kind of guarantee is granted, whether specific or implicit, including the marketing or suitability for a specific purpose. Except when established in this document, TAU will not assume any kind of contractual or extra-contractual responsibility for any loss or damage and direct, fortuitous or consecutive prejudice, as a result of the use or impossibility to use the ASCALE by TAY product. This guarantee grants specific legal rights, and there may also be other rights which will vary depending on the State. Certain States do not permit the exclusion or limitation of the implicit warranties or of the fortuitous or consecutive damages or losses, and consequently it could occur that the above limitation or exclusion is not applicable. TAU does not grant any other kind of guarantee, declaration or warranty (express or implicit) with regard to its products, except in the measure established in this document. Nobody except TAU is authorized or empowered to grant any class of promise, declaration or warranty with regard to the ASCALE by TAU product.