R9 tiles: technical characteristics, classifications and ideal applications

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to R9 tiles and anti-slip classification
2. DIN 51130 standard and R9 classification
3. How R9 surfaces are produced
4. Physical characteristics and performance of R9 tiles
5. Optimal applications of R9 tiles in domestic environments
6. R9 vs R10-R12: a technical comparison
7. Market trends and design requirements
8. Technical innovations and future developments
9. Regulatory aspects and required certifications
10. Technical Conclusions
11. FAQ

Introduction to R9 tiles and anti-slip classification

The safety of walking surfaces is a central issue in the ceramic industry, especially in contexts where aesthetics must be balanced with functional requirements. Anti-slip classification, governed by specific regulations, is one of the most useful tools for designers, R&D managers and laboratory technicians in the selection of ceramic materials.

R9 tiles are the first level of the DIN 51130 classification, which is commonly used to define the slip-resistant properties of surfaces through inclined plane testing. Although it is the lowest class, it represents an appropriate technical solution in environments with low slip risk, while offering ample design freedom.

DIN 51130 standard and R9 classification

DIN 51130 is a German international reference standard for evaluating the anti-slip properties of floors intended for pedestrian traffic environments. The test involves the progressive tilting of a platform on which an oil-lubricated floor sample is placed. An operator walks back and forth on the sample until a loss of grip occurs.

R9-rated tiles have a slip angle between 6° and 10°, making them suitable for dry spaces that are not exposed to liquid or grease contamination.

Table of classes DIN 51130

Class	Angle of inclination	Recommended scope of use
R9	6°–10°	Dry indoor environments
R10	10°–19°	Home kitchens, entrances
R11	19°–27°	Laundries, technical rooms
R12	27°–35°	Food industries
R13	>35°	Highly humid industrial areas

In addition to DIN 51130, EN 16165 (pendulum and barefoot tests) and ISO 10545-17 are also relevant, offering complementary parameters for the evaluation of slip resistance.

How R9 surfaces are produced

The creation of R9 ceramic surfaces is the result of advanced production processes involving specific glaze formulations, microgranules and surface treatments. The control of micro-roughness occurs as early as the product design stage, with attention to parameters such as:

• Grit size and composition of glazes.
• Dry or digital application techniques.
• Care of the firing curve to ensure stability and uniformity of the result.

Sicer, thanks to the work of its TECHNOLOGY LAB, has developed ready-to-use solutions such as NEXT EXPERIENCE SURFACES: a mixture of micro grits with calibrated grain size that allows for vitrified surfaces with a non-slip coefficient of R9 to R12, while maintaining textural performance and high cleanability.

Physical characteristics and performance of R9 tiles

R9 surfaces are characterized by a controlled micro roughness, which allows for a good coefficient of friction without compromising cleanability and aesthetic appearance.

Key physical characteristics include:

• Pendulum Test Value (PTV) between 40 and 50, complying with EN 16165 standards.
• High chemical resistance, ideal for domestic environments.
• Surfaces pleasant to the touch and nonabrasive, even when barefoot.

This performance makes the R9 class a solid option for environments where aesthetics matter as much as functionality.

Optimal applications of R9 tiles in domestic environments

R9 tiles are particularly suitable for use in dry indoor environments with a low risk of slipping. Among the most common applications:

• Living and dining rooms
• Hallways and bedrooms
• Living and open space areas
• Domestic kitchens with low fat or liquid exposure

In contrast, they are not suitable for bathrooms, showers, outdoor entrances or terraces, where higher grades (R10-R11) are recommended.

R9 vs R10-R12: a technical comparison

The choice between different slip classes depends on the application context, but also on production, aesthetic and maintenance factors. Below is a simplified comparison:

Feature	R9	R10	R11-R12
DIN angle	6°–10°	10°–19°	19°–35°
Non-slip safety	Media	Good	High
Ease of cleaning	High	Media	Low (structured)
Impact on design	Neutral	Medium	High (textures visible)
Production costs	Bass	Medi	High

Choosing R9 therefore allows you to reduce production complexity while maintaining a good level of safety for residential environments.

Market trends and design requirements

The R9 tile market is growing because of its versatility. Architects and designers are demanding more and more surfaces:

• Aesthetically neutral, suitable for minimalist projects.
• Easy to maintain, especially in modern residential settings.
• Compatible with modular collections that can unify indoor and outdoor spaces.

R9 surfaces meet these requirements well, making them one of the most common choices for those seeking a good compromise between design, functionality and technical certification.

Technical innovations and future developments

The future of R9 surfaces is moving toward:

• Formulations with more sophisticated visual effects (textural, soft-touch, stone effect).
• Reduction of waste by digital control of in-line roughness.
• Supplement with antibacterial or self-cleaning treatments.

Sicer, in line with its commitment to innovation, continues to develop materials that optimize aesthetic and technical performance in a balanced way, with the aim of anticipating the new demands of the industrial ceramic sector.

Regulatory aspects and required certifications

R9 surfaces, in order to be marketed and used in accordance with regulations, must comply with:

• Test according to DIN 51130 (inclined plane)
• Test according to EN 16165 (pendulum, barefoot)
• Technical documentation to be provided to designers and clients

Manufacturers are responsible for class declaration, and legal implications may arise against distributors or end users in case of non-compliance.

Technical Conclusions

R9-rated tiles offer an optimal technical and aesthetic solution for dry residential environments due to the combination of:

• Good slip resistance
• High cleanability
• Excellent aesthetic performance

They are ideal for projects where a balance between safety, durability and design is sought. Working with a technical partner like Sicer means access to solutions that are precisely formulated, validated by laboratory testing and geared to the needs of industrial production.