The coconut tree has been cultivated for over 4,000 years. Because of its
versatile potential for use - from the root to the stem of the leaf -the
inhabitants of India and Sri Lanka lovingly call it the "tree of life".
Coconut trees grow along the entire equator.
The coconut fibre is extracted from the 5-8 cm thick fibre padding which
acts as a protective covering for the coconut. The structure of the coconut
fibre is like a tiny tube. This state is due to its low specific weight and
its constant remaining elasticity. Due to the hard outer shell environmental
pollution does not come in contact with the fibres inside. The stability of
fat irr the fibres offer no breeding ground for bacteria, therefore making
coconut fibre carpets antibacterial.
In addition to high abrasion and tear resistance, these properties mark the
special quality of this carpet woven from coconut fibres, which
distinguishes itself by its high impact-sound insulating properties and
walking comfort.
And if after many years the coconut fibre carpeting has to be disposed of,
the fibres, due to their excellent putrescibility are completely
biodegradable. Coconut fibres are a regenerating raw material and can be
woven by hand or mechanically . The great majority of fibres are hand-spun.
For this reason the yarn will always have minor inconsitencies, which adds
to the natural character of the yarn and the carpeting made from it. Partial
variations in colour appear naturally. Intensive exposure to UV light may
change the colours.
As in all natural fibres, coconut is hygroscopic. This means that depending
on room humidity, the fibre either expands or contracts.
Under normal climatic conditions, coconut fibres do not become charged with
static electricity and ensure a healthy living environment with their
climate equalization properties. Humidity should , however, never fall below
40%.
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Jute, extracted from stem fibre plants, is a bast fibre similar to flax and
hemp.
Due to its special firmness and stability, the jute fibre (apporoximately
1.5 to 2.0 m long) is particularly suited for the manufacture of coarse
fibrous, stable and durable yarns and fabrics.
As in all natural materials, partial changes in colour are possible here as
well.
Please be aware that the capacity of jute fibre to recover from applications
of pressure such as those resulting from transport vehicles, kneeling at
length or also pointed chair legs, is relatively low.
However, based on experience depressions do become less noticeable over time
through regular use.
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Just as coconut fibre, sisal is a regenerating raw material.
Sisal is extracted from the leaves of the agave sisalana.
After an initial growth period of approximately four years, the first leaves
can be harvested. The harvested leaves are stripped by a machine from the
top and the bottom. In a further processing step, the pulp is pressed out
and rinsed with water.
The pure, almost white sisal fibre remaining is then dried and cleaned once
again by a brush machine.
Agave sisalana leaf fibres are between 60 and 100 cm in length and are
especially tear resistant and colourfast.
Important countries of production are Mexico, Brazil, Kenya, Tunisia and
Mozambique.
The fibres are predominantly spun by machine.
As in most natural fibres, sisal is also hygroscopic.
Sisal contracts in moist environments and expands in dry environments.
Similar to coconut, sisal has good thermal insulation properties and is
extremely flame resistant. Under normal climatic conditions, it does not
become charged with static electricity.
In addition, its sound absorption and non-crush properties are reinforced by
the use of the natural latex backing.
Just as for coconut, disposal of the fible is natural, because it, too, is
biodegradable. Partial variations in colour appear naturally. Over time and
due to high exposure to UV light the colours can change. Extreme local
pressure such as can result from transport vehicles should be avoided.
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Paper is extracted from the regenerating raw material, wood. Paper
extraction for use in the Merida Meridian Adirondack Collection quality is
only derived from wood out of cultivated forests.
The paper consists of pulp and a wet strengthening agent. Dyes and raw
materials used have been tested for harmful substances.
The environmental compatibility of this material is also fulfilled since
paper is recyclable and biodegradable.
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