| 摘要 |
The present invention features an indelibly colored grout composition and a method of making it. The grout of the invention mixes pre-colored materials such as stone, sand, plastic or ceramic aggregates with a resin binder. In the case of ceramics, the materials are pre-colored and color-fast, so that they resist fading and attack from stains and chemicals. The color-fast materials can be natural or man-made and, if man-made, can be pretreated, and permanently coated. In the case of stone, the natural colors are permanently inherent in the stone matrix and will not fade or leach out. An ultraviolet blocker is also added to the mixture to prevent the binder from yellowing when exposed to sunlight. This admixture also contains an anti-oxidant to prevent the change of color by reason of oxidation. A thixotropic agent is added to provide the desired consistancy, which eases the workability and application of the grout. The mixture may also contain an air-release agent. The pre-colored aggregates may be of a single color; however, it has been found to be advantageous to mix differently colored aggregates with the binder. Such a multi-colored or speckled grout gives the appearance of a single color when viewed from an extended distance; it also blends more readily with multi-colored tiles and masonry materials. |
